The Orange County Sheriff’s Department announced on Apr. 1 that April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, urging drivers to stay focused and avoid distractions while behind the wheel.
This campaign aims to address the dangers posed by distracted driving, which remains a leading safety concern for motorists. The department highlights that distractions such as checking a phone, using in-dash technology, adjusting the radio, or eating can lead to serious accidents.
“Distracted driving continues to put everyone on the road at risk,” Traffic Bureau Sergeant Kyle Ishii said. “When drivers take their eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, lives can change forever. We’re reminding our community that safety starts with each of us. Put the phone down, limit distractions, and help people get home safely.”
According to the 2025 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, nearly 71.4% of surveyed drivers identified distracted driving from texting or checking a phone as their biggest safety concern. In 2023 alone, there were 158 fatalities in California attributed to distracted driving crashes—a figure representing a 6.8 percent increase from the previous year. The actual numbers may be higher because distraction is not always identified as a factor in every crash.
Throughout April, deputies will be looking for violations of California’s hands-free cell phone law. Under this law, drivers are prohibited from holding or operating electronic devices while driving—even when stopped at red lights—which includes talking on the phone and using apps or texting. Violators face fines and could receive an additional point on their record if cited again within three years of an initial offense.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department advances community safety through resources like missing persons alerts and emergency preparedness programs according to its official website. The department includes nearly 4,000 sworn and professional staff across various commands and divisions according to its official website, focusing on protecting residents through impartial law enforcement guided by integrity and respect according to its official website. Its operations extend throughout Orange County across multiple locations according to its official website, embodying values rooted in local history where early settlers built thriving communities from barren land according to its official website. The department also implements state laws such as AB 481 regarding military equipment oversight and SB 384 concerning sex offender registration according to its official website.
As National Distracted Driving Awareness Month continues throughout April, officials encourage all drivers in Orange County and beyond to prioritize safe habits behind the wheel.
