12-04-2025
City of Sacramento ramps up efforts to prevent distracted driving
( City of Sacramento Police Department is working on its efforts to prevent distracted driving and save lives on our roads.
A city spokesperson said the department wants to remind all drivers to stay focused, keep their eyes forward, and keep their hands on the wheel. 'Whether checking a phone, eating, or adjusting the radio, distractions can have devastating consequences.'
Officials said according to the 2024 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, close to 74 percent of drivers said that distracted driving is caused because of texting and that was their biggest safety concern. In 2022, the survey showed that there were about 148 people who were killed in distracted driving crashes in California.
'Staying focused behind the wheel is something we can all do,' Sacramento Police Sergeant KenCollier said. '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. Distracted driving is not only risky; it is deadly. Stay focused, stay alert, and help us keep our roads safe.
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Throughout April, officers will be looking for drivers who violate the state's hands-free cell phone law, officials said.
Authorities said, 'Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle, even when stopped at a red light. This includes talking, texting, or using an app.'
Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by being handed a fine, city officials said. When a driver violates the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense it will result in a point being added to the driver's record.
The city has issued some steps drivers can take to stay focused on the road.
Put your phone away: Silence notifications and store your phone where you can't reach while driving.
Plan: Set your GPS, adjust mirrors, and finish any tasks before you start driving.
Be a role model: Show your passengers, especially young drivers, that focused driving is the
norm.
Speak up: If you're a passenger and see the driver distracted, kindly remind them to stayfocused.
Pull over if necessary: If something urgent comes up, stop in a safe place before responding.
Officials stated that the funding for distracted driving enforcement is being provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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