South OC Times

The Sheriff's Department in Mission Viejo is taking steps to address the issue of distracted driving. On November 23, deputies will focus on drivers who violate California's cell phone law by talking, texting, or using an app without a hands-free device. Offenders face fines starting at $162 for the first offense and at least $285 for subsequent offenses.

Cell phones are noted as the primary distraction for drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,450 fatalities occurred in 2016 due to distracted driving. A study conducted in 2018 by Fresno State and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) revealed that nearly 5% of drivers in California were illegally using their phones while driving.

In addition to cell phone use, other distractions include eating, grooming, conversing with passengers, using GPS devices, adjusting radios, removing jackets, or reaching for items on the floor. Drivers are encouraged to pull over safely if they need to make important calls or adjust navigation systems and to silence or place their phones out of reach to avoid temptation.

This enforcement operation is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.