1 day Ago By Daily Republic Staff
RIO VISTA — The city Police Department is urging motorists to "stay focused," an educational outreach recognizing April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. "Staying focused behind the wheel is something we can all do,” Rio Vista police Sgt. Richard Pontecorvo said in a statement.
“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.
” Nearly 74% of drivers questioned as part of a 2024 statewide survey stated "distracted driving, because of texting, was their biggest safety concern." There were 148 people killed in distracted driving traffic crashes in California in 2022. "The numbers are likely underreported because law enforcement officers may not always be able to tell that distraction was a factor in a crash," the police statement said.
The department will be actively looking for drivers throughout the month who are in violation of the state’s hands-free cellphone law. "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 cellphone while driving is punishable by a fine, and violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record," the statement said. The department suggests following these steps: • 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..
