Hands-free ordinance now in effect in Surprise

SURPRISE, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Starting today, if you use your phone while driving without being in hands-free mode, you're breaking the law in Surprise.

The new distracted driving law, which the city council approved last month, penalizes drivers who use their phones while driving, and offenders of the new law can face fines of up to $250.

Public safety personnel operating in their professional capacity are exempt from the ordinance and drivers communicating an emergency situation to emergency personnel are also exempt.

Drivers can also continue to use two-way radio communication, as long as they can safely operate the vehicle while doing so.

Arizona is one of only a few states without a statewide ban on using your phone or texting while driving.

To view the new distracted-driving ordinance, click here.