New Traffic Code becomes effective March 16 at USAG-Hawaii

By U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii Public AffairsMarch 16, 2015

New Traffic Code becomes effective March 16 at USAG-Hawaii
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New Traffic Code becomes effective March 16 at USAG-Hawaii
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SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii -- U.S. Army Hawaii Regulation 190-5, the new USARHAW Traffic Code, takes effect Monday, March 16.

The regulation specifies violations for alcohol-related offenses, driving above the posted limit, and driving on a suspended or revoked license, among other violations.

Soldiers, civilians, family members, contractors and other personnel who work, reside or visit an Army installation in Hawaii are subject to this new regulation.

"The regulation allowed us to take four existing policy letters and make them into one sole source document," said Sgt. Maj. Veronica Regalbuti, senior enlisted adviser, Directorate of Emergency Services, who drafted the policy.

The regulation gives motorists details about driving, distractions and prohibitions when operating motor vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds or bicycles. Each must abide by these regulations and others:

•Use only hands-free cell phones.

•Do not wear portable headphones or earphones.

•Do not use radar detectors.

•Avoid noise that travels more than 30 feet from the vehicle.

•Only park in authorized parking stalls.

•Follow rules for limited and reserved stalls, effective from 5 a.m. -6 p.m., or when the activity is operational or open.

By driving, motorists are stating they comply with laws and regulations. They must have a valid driver's license, valid vehicle registration, valid safety inspection and proof of valid insurance.

Motorists are also giving implied consent to blood, breath or urine tests when lawfully stopped, apprehended or cited for an offense.

The new regulation also increases suspensions for offenses, including these:

•Driving with no valid insurance, registration or license, resulting in a suspension of on-post driving privileges for 90 days.

•Operating any motor vehicle while using a cell phone, without a hands-free device.

•Failure to use safety restraints, such as seat belts or child restraint systems.

•Failure to wear personal protective equipment while operating a motorcycle.

Still other increased suspensions for offenses apply.

Service members and civilian sponsors are responsible for ensuring their family members and guests are aware of and understand the regulations.

• Motorcycles and Mopeds

When operating motorcycles and mopeds, drivers must keep headlights on at all times, wear Department of Transportation protective gear, such as a helmet, eye protection, long-sleeved shirt or jacket, sturdy over-the-ankle footwear, long trousers and gloves.

Military personnel must complete required motorcycle courses before operating a motorcycle.

• Bicycles

All cyclists must wear helmets while riding a bicycle. Adult cyclists must adhere to rules governing motor vehicles and ride on roadways. Youth may ride bicycles on sidewalks.

Cyclists cannot carry more passengers than required for the bicycle.

• Other Non-Motorized Vehicles

Vehicles, such as scooters, skateboards, roller skates, sleds and razors are not permitted on roadways. They must be used on sidewalks and private driveways.

Users must wear approved helmets, elbow pads, kneepads and reflective clothing (during times of limited visibility or darkness).

Related Links:

U.S. Army Garrison, Hawaii

U.S. Army Hawaii Reg. 190-5 (Traffic Code)