Westport Police Combat Distracted Driving

WESTPORT, CT — The Westport Police Department is partnering with the Connecticut Department of Transportation in a statewide campaign this month aimed at reducing distracted driving and raising public awareness of the dangers associated with it.

The enforcement and education effort coincides with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and runs from April 1 through April 30. Police departments across Connecticut are increasing patrols and enforcement during the campaign, which is part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Put the Phone Away or Pay” initiative.

During the monthlong effort, officers in Westport and throughout the state will focus on identifying drivers who engage in behaviors such as texting, using handheld electronic devices or otherwise diverting their attention from the road.

Transportation officials say distracted driving continues to be a significant safety concern nationwide and in Connecticut. According to federal data, 3,275 people were killed in distracted-driving crashes in the United States in 2023. In Connecticut that year, authorities recorded 5,202 crashes involving distracted driving, resulting in 12 deaths and 78 serious injuries.

“Driving requires your full attention every second you’re on the road,” Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said in a statement. “Even a brief distraction, such as checking a notification or sending a quick text, can lead to devastating consequences.”

Connecticut State Police said distracted driving remains a frequent factor in crashes investigated by troopers.

“Distracted driving crashes are preventable,” said Col. Daniel Loughman, commanding officer of the Connecticut State Police. “I urge all drivers to keep their full attention on the road.”

Police leaders across the state say enforcement during April will focus on encouraging drivers to comply with existing laws that prohibit the use of handheld devices while driving.

“Reducing distracted driving is a shared responsibility,” said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. “We urge drivers to put their phones down and stay focused so everyone can travel safely.”

Six Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving:
CTDOT encourages motorists to make safe driving a habit by eliminating distractions before and during every trip:

• Pull over safely if you need to text or make a call. Never handle your phone while driving.
• Ask a passenger to help manage navigation or messages so you can focus on the road.
• Avoid checking social media while driving. No message or post is worth risking a crash.
• Limit interaction with in-vehicle technology. Program navigation or music before starting your trip.
• Use your phone’s “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature or silence notifications to reduce the temptation to check your device.

Remember a text or a call is not worth your life, it can wait.

For more information about distracted driving prevention and safety resources, visit nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving.