Local law enforcement cracking down on distracted driving
Mercer County Sheriff's Department is part of the Governor's Highway Safety Program. Captain Adam Ballard told 59News they are cracking down on distracted driving.
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He explained that the first conviction for distracted driving could amount to no more than $100, but by the third conviction in a 24-month period, it could cost you up to $350 – not to mention the bigger charges that could be applied if someone were to be injured or killed because of distracted driving.
'Nationally, we see over 3,000 people killed every year related to distracted driving, as well as over 350,000 people injured in those crashes. The people glance off the roadway, they look down no matter what they're doing, whether the checking the phone and they could travel the length of a football field. So, you think 300 feet in just a few seconds – 5 seconds or less is a good amount of distance to drive practically blindfolded,' said Captain Ballard.
Captain Ballard said that it would not hurt anybody to simply pull over if you need to access your phone on the road. Hands free devices are highly recommended to help you focus on the road better.
Ballard recommended keeping your eyes locked on the road, especially in work zones.
If you would like to learn more about the law in West Virginia regarding distracted driving, visit this link.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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