Distracted Driving Enforcement

Bald Knob, AR — Today, the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office launches the statewide distracted driving campaign, “Put the Phone Away or Pay”. The high-visibility enforcement campaign, running from October 19 through 25, will remind drivers of the deadly dangers and legal consequences of distracted driving.

In 2023, distracted driving crashes killed 3,275 people across the United States, according to

the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Of those killed, 611 were pedestrians,

cyclists and other non-motorist. Seven percent of drivers 15 to 20 years old involved in fatal

crashes were reported as distracted. This age group had the largest proportion of drivers who were distracted at the time of the fatal crash. “Distracted driving is a leading cause of vehicle crashes on our nation’s roads, and most of this distraction can be attributed to cell phone use,” said Assistant Chief JR Tackett. “People know using their phone while driving is dangerous and often illegal, but they do it anyway, and put themselves and others at risk. Drivers will see increased law enforcement efforts, as officers will be stopping and ticketing anyone who is caught texting and driving. If you text and drive, you will pay,” Tackett said.

Violating Arkansas’ distracted-driving laws can be costly.

Drive Safe Every Trip

NHTSA urges drivers to put their phones away when behind the wheel. If you are the driver, follow these steps for a safe drive:

• If you are expecting a text message or need to send one that can’t wait, pull over and park your car in a safe location before using your device.

• Ask your passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.

• Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.

• Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s

  “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or put your phone in the trunk, glove

  box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.

Cell phone use while driving is dangerous and illegal. Break the cycle. Remember: Put the

Phone Away or Pay. For more information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving.