South OC Times

Laguna Hills, Ca. (April 24, 2024): The Sheriff’s Department in Laguna Hills is intensifying its efforts to combat distracted driving, a perilous and unlawful behavior that poses a significant threat to road safety.

On Friday, April 26, deputies will be concentrating on apprehending drivers engaged in distracting activities such as talking, texting, or using apps on their phones while driving, in violation of California's cell phone laws. Those found in violation face fines of $162 for the first offense and at least $285 for subsequent offenses.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving, primarily involving cell phones, resulted in the deaths of 3,450 individuals in 2016. A 2018 survey conducted by Fresno State and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) revealed that nearly 5 percent of California drivers were illegally using their phones while driving, either by talking on them or operating them without a hands-free device.

The Sheriff’s Department emphasizes the importance of prioritizing road safety over distractions. They advise drivers to pull over to a safe location if they need to make important phone calls or adjust navigation systems. Other distractions highlighted include eating, grooming, conversing with passengers, using GPS, adjusting the radio, removing clothing, or reaching for objects on the floor.

To combat the temptation of using phones while driving, drivers are encouraged to either silence their devices or place them out of reach. The funding for the distracted driving enforcement initiative is made possible through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, in collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.