LEESVILLE — The city will begin putting up signs in the next few days to remind drivers that a new state law prohibits them from using cellphones in a school zone.

“Just from working the road, I’ve seen people writing a novel,” said Police Chief Greg Hill. “They’re so into it they don’t even see us sitting next to them. If (the law) prevents one child from getting hurt, then it’s worth a lot.”

He said officers weren’t allowed to enforce the law, which took effect Aug. 1, until signs were posted. Hill said a backlog likely caused the delay in sending the signs, which will be posted alongside school zone signs.

Mayor Rick Allen said police will begin enforcing the law one month after the signs go up. First-time offenders can be fined up to $175; repeat offenses can garner fines of up to $500. Traffic accidents involving phone use could lead to doubled fines, Allen said.

The law doesn’t apply to hands-free devices or to people reporting an accident, crime or emergency.

“Kids nowadays, the cellphone has become the priority,” Hill said.

“Driving is supposed to be priority number one. And some parents have that problem too. We’re just trying to prevent injury.”(MGNonline)