No tickets for texting and walking in Philly

PHILADELPHIA - July 19, 2011 (WPVI) -- Have you heard that Philadelphia police will hand out tickets for texting and walking? Philly's deputy mayor says that's not true.

A report that texting and walking would be a ticketable offense from a local news station was picked up by a number of news networks and blogs overnight.

The stories quoted Deputy Mayor Rina Cutler.

However, when contacted by Action News on Tuesday, Cutler said that is not true. Furthermore, she questioned how such a law could even be enforced.

The story originally appeared as part of a report on the city's 'Give Respect-Get Respect' campaign. It's described as an educational initiative for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to be more aware and mindful of each other on Philadelphia's roads.

In a statement released on Tuesday afternoon, Cutler said pedestrians may be reminded to be more aware of their surroundings; however, there are no citations issued by the Philadelphia Police Department for texting while walking.

If a Philadelphia police officer observes a driver, cyclist or pedestrian participating in any kind of potentially dangerous behavior, the officer will remind them to be careful.

The city has warned nearly 600 bicyclists about dangerous behavior and more than 100 motorists about distracted driving.

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