On October 18, 2023, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) Highway Safety Office, in partnership with state and local law enforcement agencies, unveiled a heightened enforcement initiative. From October 15-31, officers across the state will actively monitor roads and highways, stopping and ticketing motorists engaging in texting and other distractions while driving.
Connecticut saw almost 5,200 crashes due to distracted driving in 2022 alone. Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto emphasized the risks, stating, “Taking your eyes off the road for a moment is all it takes to cause a crash and change lives forever.” Eucalitto added that for the remainder of October, the state will experience a significant increase in law enforcement presence. “If you have a phone in your hand, expect to be stopped and issued a ticket.”
Nationally, distracted driving remains a grave concern. Data from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that in 2021, 3,522 lives were lost because of distracted driving. Moreover, it has emerged as one of the foremost causes of vehicular accidents in the country. Disturbingly, about 660,000 drivers are estimated to be using electronic devices while driving at any given time, a statistic that has persisted for over ten years.
To reduce accidents and fatalities from distracted driving, CTDOT suggests:
- Turning off and storing electronic devices out of reach while driving.
- Setting a responsible example for younger drivers.
- Speaking up if a driver uses an electronic device and offering to assist so the driver can focus on the road.
- Consistently wearing seat belts.
- Being vigilant of pedestrians and cyclists.
Connecticut law restricts the use of hand-held mobile devices while driving. Notably, drivers aged 16 and 17 are prohibited from using any mobile device, even with hands-free equipment.
CTDOT further recommends drivers to safely pull over and park if they need to text. Non-compliance with these laws carries hefty penalties: a $200 fine for the first offense, $375 for the second, and $625 for the third and any subsequent offenses.
For comprehensive information on distracted driving and prevention, the public is encouraged to visit www.nhtsa.gov online.
