HONOLULU -- The Honolulu Police Department on Thursday wanted to get the word out to the public about the cell phone ban starting on July 1.

Drivers on cellular phones have been a common sight on Oahu's roads, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said distracted drivers are twice as likely to get into an accident. HPD said that is the sole reason for enforcing the new law.

"I think the whole thing we should look at as a safety issue," Maj. Thomas Nitta said.

A driver's first citation will cost $67.

The police define use as anytime you have something in your hand, which you'll use for dialing, texting, e-mails or video games.

(Read the cell phone ban law)

"It will be basically what we call an 'on-view violation.' If an officer happens to observe it, then the person will be cited," Nitta said.

Emergency responders such as firefighters, police officers and ambulance personnel are exempt. The law also exempts bus drivers and any driver using a handheld cell phone to call 911.

It's definitely going to affect Keenan Porter.

"Yeah, I'm often on the road since I'm in outside sales and I'm calling customers and other people. So, it will affect me. I guess I'm going to have to use my earphones now," Porter said.

Malia Marks is like many people who said the ban is a good thing.

"I got rear-ended by someone who was on the phone," marks said.

Hands-free devices are still allowed. The law affects only the driver.

Drivers are not allowed to make a call while stopped in traffic.