Law enforcement reminds the public that April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month ...0

Times of San Diego - News
Law enforcement reminds the public that April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month
FILE: Police lights. (Chris Stone)

As April begins, law enforcement is reminding drivers to stay focused, keep their eyes forward and keep their hands on the wheel as part of Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

This month, officers will be on high alert for drivers who are in violation of the state’s hands-free cell phone law. Whether checking a phone, eating or adjusting the radio, distractions can have devastating consequences, according to the department.

    “Distracted Driving Awareness Month is an important reminder that even a moment of inattention or a quick glance at the phone can lead to serious consequences,” the Escondido Police Department’s interim chief said.

    Under the current hands-free cell phone law, drivers are not allowed to hold phones or electronic communication devices while operating a vehicle, which includes talking, texting or using an app.

    Officials said using a hand-held cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine, and violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.

    In 2022, 148 people were killed in distracted driving traffic crashes throughout the state, according to law enforcement.

    According to 2023’s California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, 74% of motorists said that driving while texting was their biggest safety concern.

    The SDPD offered the following tips to stay safe on the road:

    Silence notifications and store your phone where you can’t reach it while driving; Set your GPS, adjust mirrors and finish any tasks before you start driving; Keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road; Show your passengers, especially young drivers, that focused driving is the norm; If you’re a passenger and see the driver distracted, remind them to stay focused; If something urgent comes up, stop in a safe place before responding.

    Funding for distracted driving enforcement was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

    City News Service contributed to this report.

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