Distracted Walking Carries Hefty Fine In One California City

Distracted walking could mean a ticket for residents of one California city. 

Montclair police are now enforcing a law which requires pedestrians crossing a street to stay off their phones.

Under the new law, a pedestrian crossing the street cannot talk on a phone, stare at a phone or have both ears covered with headphones or earbuds.

“No pedestrian shall cross a street or highway while engaged in a phone call, viewing a mobile electronic device or with both ears covered or obstructed by personal audio equipment,” the ordinance reads.

The initial violation will carry a $100 fine. A second violation within the same year will come with a $200 fine. A third violation will carry a hefty $500 fine.

There are exceptions for 911 calls and those wearing hearing aids.