South OC Times

Stanton, Ca. (April 10, 2024) - In an effort to combat distracted driving, the Sheriff’s Department in Stanton is intensifying its measures to discourage motorists from engaging in risky behaviors behind the wheel.

According to a statement issued by the department, deputies will be concentrating their enforcement efforts on drivers who are found to be talking, texting, or using any applications on their phones that are not hands-free, thereby violating California’s cell phone law. For those caught in violation, fines can range from $162 for a first offense to a minimum of $285 for a subsequent offense.

The issue of distracted driving encompasses a variety of activities, with cell phone usage remaining a primary concern. Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal that in 2016 alone, 3,450 individuals lost their lives due to accidents involving distracted drivers. Furthermore, a 2018 observational survey conducted by Fresno State and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) found that nearly 5 percent of drivers in California were unlawfully using their phones while driving, either by talking or handling the device without a hands-free setup.

While acknowledging the prevalence of distractions in today's fast-paced society, authorities emphasize the importance of prioritizing road safety. Alongside cell phone usage, other common distractions include eating, grooming, conversing with passengers, operating GPS systems, adjusting the radio, removing clothing items, or reaching for objects on the vehicle floor.

To mitigate the temptation of using phones while driving, officials advise individuals to either silence their devices or place them out of reach. Additionally, drivers are urged to pull over to a safe location if they need to make or answer important calls, or reconfigure their navigation systems.

The Sheriff’s Department's intensified efforts against distracted driving are made possible through funding from a grant allocated by the California Office of Traffic Safety in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.