Law enforcement agencies in Southwest Washington have teamed up to add additional patrols emphasizing distracted driving this month.
Participating local agencies in the April patrol emphasis include Battle Ground Police Department, Ridgefield Police Department, Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency, Vancouver Police Department and Washington State Patrol.
The enforcement period is part of ongoing efforts to encourage focused driving and marks the beginning of Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April, a press release by Target Zero Region 6 stated.
Distracted driving is a violation of Washington’s Driving Under the Influence of Electronics (E-DUI) law, which states drivers may not hold cell phones or watch videos while they are driving, stopped in traffic or at a stop light. Hands-free use is limited to a single-touch device, the release stated.
The first violation results in an E-DUI ticket that costs drivers $136. If the driver receives a second ticket within five years, the fine increases to $234.
“Distraction is not just limited to electronics,” the release states. “Eating, drinking and personal grooming also take drivers’ attention away from the road and other road users. Target Zero reminds our community that road safety requires each of us to make safe choices. You can make a difference! It is our goal in Washington to have ZERO people in your household involved in a serious or fatal crash.”
The release states drivers need to model being a distraction-free driver, discuss with friends and family strategies to drive safely and distraction free, and advocate by saying something and intervening if someone is driving distracted and offer help with navigation, changing music and other ways.
The release states to take action to keep families and friends safe on the roadway.
“If you are driving and see a suspected impaired or unsafe driver, call 911. If you or someone you know struggles with substance abuse, there is help: Call 1-800-662-HELP,” the release stated.
