Texting while walking or driving is something very common but can be quite dangerous. Actually, it can be much more dangerous than bumping into walls or people or falling down the stairs. The increasing number of incidents, car crashes and deaths as a result of using a cell phone is troubling.

There have been numerous attempts that aim to raise awareness of the issue yet the statistics clearly show that something more radical should be done to stop this madness.

Distracted Texting Can Get You Fined in Honolulu

Honolulu lawmakers have taken the problem very seriously, which resulted in passing a bill for an ordinance that makes it illegal for pedestrians to “cross a street or highway while viewing a mobile electron device”. Anyone, who violates the bill, will be fined for the first violation between $15 to $30, for second $35 to $75, and for a third violation $75 up to $99.

There are certain exceptions – emergency responders (such as firefighters, police officers and emergency medical technicians) will not be fined if they are viewing a mobile electronic device when they are performing their duties.

After the bill was approved by the Mayor of Honolulu back in July, it is expected to become effective anytime soon. It is a very serious step towards addressing the problem of distracted walking, which can actually save lives. Do you think that it will make a difference?