The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launches effort to deter distracted driving

SEYMOUR – 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 this April.

Law enforcement officers nationwide will work together to enforce texting and distracted-driving laws and remind people to put away distractions while on the road. This effort comes during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

Lieutenant Michael Cooper

“People know using their phones while driving is dangerous and often illegal, but they do it anyway and put themselves and others at risk,” said Lieutenant Michael Cooper. Drivers will see increased law enforcement efforts, as officers will stop and ticket anyone caught texting and driving.

Violating Indiana’s distracted driving laws can be costly. For example, violators of the hands-free law could face a Class C infraction, which could result in fines of up to $500 and points added to their license.

Cell phone use while driving is dangerous and illegal. Break the cycle. For more information, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving.