Menlo Park PD focuses on the dangers of distracted driving

Published on April 14, 2025

20250414Menlo-Park-Police-focuses-on-the-dangers-of-distracted-driving.png

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and as part of the Office of Traffic Safety campaign, “Eyes Forward, Hands on the Wheel: Focused Driving Saves Lives,” the Menlo Park Police Department will conduct an enforcement operation focused on drivers suspected of violating the hands-free cell phone law from April 21 through April 30.

In its efforts to prevent distracted driving and save lives on our roads, the Menlo Park Police Department reminds all drivers to stay focused, keep their eyes forward and keep their hands on the wheel. Whether checking a phone, eating or adjusting the radio, distractions can have devastating consequences.

“Staying focused behind the wheel is something we can all do,” Traffic Sergeant Chris Adair said. “Distracted Driving Awareness Month is an important reminder that even a moment of inattention or a quick glance at the phone can lead to serious consequences. Distracted driving is not only risky, it is deadly. Stay focused, stay alert and help us keep our roads safe.”

According to the 2024 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, nearly 74% of drivers surveyed said that distracted driving because of texting was their biggest safety concern. In 2022, 148 people were killed in distracted driving traffic crashes in California. The numbers are likely underreported because law enforcement officers may not always be able to determine that distraction was a factor in a crash.

While the Menlo Park Police Department will be actively looking for drivers who are in violation of the state’s hands-free cell phone law, directed enforcement will take place between April 21 through April 30.

Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle, even when stopped at a red light. This includes talking, texting or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine, and second violation of the hands-free law for within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.

Follow these simple steps to stay focused and protect everyone on the road:

Put your phone away: Silence notifications and store your phone where you can’t reach it while driving.
Plan ahead: Set your GPS, adjust mirrors and finish any tasks before you start driving.
Keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road: Avoid eating, grooming or adjusting controls while driving.
Be a role model: Show your passengers, especially young drivers, that focused driving is the norm.
Speak up: If you’re a passenger and see the driver distracted, kindly remind them to stay focused.
Pull over if necessary: If something urgent comes up, stop in a safe place before responding.

Funding for distracted driving enforcement is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.