The Police Department is focusing on distracted driving as the school year starts. We are committed to keeping our community safe. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,142 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2020. Texting is the most alarming distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed. Even if you’re a driver or passenger, you can be the messenger, telling the driver to put the phone down. Speak up! Tell your friends and family to drive safe and put the phone down. As a parent, set the example and Put. The. Phone. Down.
Under Virginia law, drivers may not even hold a handheld personal communication device. A violation of this infraction is a fine of $125 and a second or subsequent penalty is $250. Also, this infraction will most likely increase your insurance. The Police Department asks you to take the NHTSA pledge. Please protect lives by never texting or talking on the phone while driving, be a good passenger and speak out if the driver in the car is distracted and encourage friends and family to drive phone free. #justdrive