Law enforcement on alert this week for distracted drivers
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is in the midst of a national high-visibility enforcement effort through Monday to deter distracted driving.
Law enforcement officers nationwide are working together to enforce texting and distracted-driving laws and remind drivers − "Put the Phone Away or Pay." This effort comes during April, which is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
According to NHTSA, in 2022 there were 3,308 people killed and an estimated additional 289,310 people injured in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers.
“Distracted driving is a leading cause of vehicle crashes on our nation’s roads, and most of this distraction can be attributed to cell phone use,” said Crawford County Sheriff Scott Kent “People know using their phone while driving is dangerous and often illegal, but they do it anyway and put themselves and others at risk. Drivers will see increased law enforcement efforts, as officers will be stopping and ticketing anyone who is caught texting and driving. If you text and drive, you will pay."
Violations can be costly
NHTSA urges drivers to put their phones away when behind the wheel. If you are the driver, follow these steps for a safe drive:
If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location.
Ask your passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications or put your phone in the trunk, glove box or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.
For more information, visit nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving.
This article originally appeared on Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum: NHTSA and Crawford County Sheriff targeting distracted driving
