The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is launching a national high-visibility enforcement effort to deter distracted driving. Law enforcement officers nationwide will work 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.
In 2022 there were 3,308 people killed and an estimated additional 289,310 people injured in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers, according to NHTSA. However, due to data collection limitations, these are underestimations.
“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 Somerset County Prosecutor John McDonald. “People know using their phone while driving is dangerous and often illegal, but they do it anyway and put themselves and others at risk.
In Somerset and Hunterdon County, drivers will see increased law enforcement efforts throughout the month as officers will be stopping and ticketing anyone who is caught texting and driving. “If you text and drive, you will pay,” he said. Violating New Jersey’s distracted-driving laws can be costly. A first offense can range from $200 to $400; a second offense is $400 to $600; a third or subsequent offense can range from $600 to $800.
Drive Safe Every Trip
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 that can’t wait, pull over and park your car in a safe location before using your device.
- Ask your passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them to access your phone to respond to calls or messages.
- Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
- Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? 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.
Cell phone use while driving is dangerous and illegal. Break the cycle.
Remember: Put the Phone Away or Pay.
For more information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving.
