by Tech. Sgt. David Piskorick
17th Security Forces Squadron
6/20/2012 - GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Cell Phone usage while driving on base has been prohibited for some time now on Goodfellow and across the installations throughout the world. As of June13, AFI 31-204 Sup 1, Air Force Motor Vehicle Supervision updated violations and penalties associated with unauthorized cell phone use.
The new policy states;
First violation: 14-day suspension Second violation: 30-day suspension Third violation: 1-year suspension.
Three points will be assessed for each cell phone violation. A DD Form 1408, Armed Forces Traffic Ticket will be issued to all for unauthorized use of cell phone while driving.
While driving among the thousands of pedestrians, it is imperative to ensure their safety and for you to keep your attention on the road. Newer vehicles have Bluetooth capabilities and after market means are available for your use as well. Keep in mind the speaker phone option is not considered hands free as it still requires divided attention to place calls.
Additionally, texting while driving is becoming increasingly more dangerous and deadly to both the vehicle occupants and pedestrians alike. The National Safety Council showed at least 23 percent or 1.6 million traffic accidents involved cell phones and contribute to thousands of deaths each year.
With safety in mind, put the phone down and drive, and as Col. Mark Damiano, 17th Training Wing Commander stated in his last Commanders Call "Don't be that guy"!
