MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- According to Marine Corps Order 5100.19E, changes to certain traffic issues will be instituted Corps wide affective immediately.
The order prohibits the use of cell phones while driving, requires headlights to be on when there is precipitation in the air and mandates the utilization of seatbelts. The order also states that violators will have to face the consequences.
"The Station institutes a point system with violations that involve vehicles," said Lance Cpl. Sean Grimes, Provost Marshal's Pass and Regulations licensing clerk. "If someone receives 12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months their license is revoked."
For driving aboard the Station while talking on a cell phone, conspirators will be given a warning on the first offense, but will be hit with a three-point ticket during any future violations. Driving on base without a seatbelt will automatically land the violator a three-point ticket.
"The seatbelt ticket goes for everyone in the vehicle. It doesn't matter if you are driving or in the back seat, everyone has to wear a seatbelt," said Grimes.
The other issue the order mentioned was headlights being turned on during periods of reduced visibility, before and after colors, light or heavy rain and fog or smoke.
According to Pat Brown, Station Safety program administrator, headlights need not to be taken for granted.
"It's a proven fact that someone can identify a car coming towards them 4,500 feet away with its lights on compared to 2,500 feet without the lights on," Brown said. "The headlight policy is implemented for a reason and it's more so the people can see you coming."
The changes to the order come out in time for summer when many traffic accidents occur involving Marines.
"There's no secret that driving while talking on a cell phone, not wearing a seatbelt and not having your lights on with low visibility are all unsafe behaviors. They sell hands free devices for the cell phones and what ever price they are is more than worth the price of your life," Brown said.
Brown also mentioned a fact that many Marines here may not be aware of.
"The Marine Corps does not have to pay for your medical bills if you were not wearing a seatbelt," he said.
Although some of the new policies aforementioned are still being introduced to commands around the Corps, installations will be cracking down on violators.
"We are coming up with more astringent penalties that will hopefully stop anyone from making poor decisions," Brown said.