Driver distractions have always presented challenges to roadway safety. Over the years, it has increasingly become a more serious problem as in-vehicle technology has expanded. To discourage this dangerous habit, the California Highway Patrol is launching a statewide Adult Distracted Drivers campaign in partnership with the California Office of Traffic Safety.

The yearlong campaign, funded by a grant, will combine education and enforcement to combat distracted driving. The focus of the education component is to help people understand anything that diverts a driver’s eyes or attention from the roadway, even for a second or two, can result in tragedy.

“For your safety and for the well-being of those around you, keep your eyes on the road and not on your phone,” CHP Acting Commissioner Warren Stanley said. “Nothing on that phone is worth endangering a life.”

The CHP reminds motorists that it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless it is hands-free. The more technology a car has, the more distractions it may present to the driver. Multitasking increases the risk a driver will injure or kill themselves, their passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, or people in other vehicles.

With this grant, the CHP will complete a minimum of 100 distracted driving enforcement operations and at least 600 traffic safety presentations statewide by the end of September 2018.

“Our goal with this grant is to further educate the public about the hazards associated with distracted driving and ultimately stop the potentially deadly behavior,” Acting Commissioner Stanley added.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from OTS through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.