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Another Law Enforcement Agency Cracking Down on Distracted Driving

Posted: 8:03 AM Apr 16, 2012
Reporter: Samantha Boatman

Month Long Crackdown on Distracted Driving

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CA - The South Lake Tahoe Police Department has joined the effort when it comes to cracking down on distracted driving.

They're reminding drivers texting or talking on the cell phone while driving can be extremely dangerous, it can also land you a ticket for $159.

“Our officers take distracted driving very seriously.” said So Lake Tahoe Police Sgt Shannon Laney “If you haven’t heeded all the safety messaging to put down your phone and just drive, be forewarned! Is that text message or cell phone call really worth $159?”

Studies show that texting or talking on the cell phone can delay reaction time. Drivers who use cell phones while driving are four times more likely to get in a car accident and injure themselves or others.

Young drivers under the age of 20 are involved in the most distracted-driving fatal crashes.

“Changing the dangerous, illegal habit of using hand-held cell phones or texting while driving isn’t easy,” said Office of Traffic Safety Director Christopher J. Murphy. “But recent studies show that California’s cell and texting laws have made a big difference – cutting deaths by nearly half. But half is not enough.”

The crackdown is apart of Distracted Driving Awareness Month.