Don’t Walk and Text in Hawaii

Don’t walk and text in Hawaii!  At least while crossing the street on Oahu.

A couple weeks ago, the Honolulu City Council made national headlines when they passed a new resolution.  Called the “Cross and Text Law” it basically outlaws the use of your mobile device while crossing the street.  The resolution hadn’t become law, however, until last Thursday when Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed the resolution.  (Sorry, haven’t been paying attention to the news at all lately).

The Cross and Text Law

The law is pretty straight-forward.  At it’s most basic level, the law prohibits pedestrians from viewing their mobile device while crossing the street.  And yes, no viewing means you may still talk on your phone while crossing the street.  But that’s it.  You may not read, text, follow a maps app, play games, etc. while crossing the street.  This law isn’t limited to just mobile phones or smartphones, though.  The laws also include the use of e-readers, mobile video players, mobile gaming systems, pagers, etc.  It is important to note, though, that it is legal to view your phone while crossing the street for the purpose of making an emergency “911” call.

Implementation + Fines

For now, Honolulu Police will begin a warning and education period.  Come October 25, 2017, however, citations will be issued for offenders.  Offenders will be fined as follows:

• First Offense:  $15-$35
• Second Offense:  $35-$75
• Third Offense:  $75-$99

These levels, however, are based on a rolling 12-month cycle.  So, if you aren’t cited for 12 months since your prior citation, your “counter” is reset.  What isn’t clear, though, is how your actual citation amount will be calculated.

Don’t Walk and Text in Hawaii Final Thoughts

I can understand the reasoning behind this law, but I don’t necessarily agree with it.  It does seem a little overbearing, and I don’t like how there are fine ranges.  Plus, proving your innocence in court would be extremely difficult.  And that’s concern to me because the law would be really easy to abuse police officers.  I’m not saying they will, but all it takes is just one bad apple.  That being said, this isn’t really an issue for me.  I already make it a point to not stare at my phone as I cross the street anyway.  It could become irritating while trying to use a maps/navigation app while walking, but even that is relatively minor.  Just remember this law the next time you’re on Oahu!