Law enforcement agencies in SW Washington are teaming up to add additional patrols focusing on distracted driving. The enforcement period is part of ongoing efforts to encourage focused driving and marks the beginning of Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April.
Participating local agencies include:
- Battle Ground Police Department
- Ridgefield Police Department
- Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency
- Vancouver Police Department
- Washington State Patrol
Distracted driving is a violation of Washington’s Driving Under the Influence of Electronics (EDUI) law, which states drivers may not hold cell phones or watch videos while they are driving, stopped in traffic or at a stop light. Hands-free use is limited to a single touch device. The first violation results in an E-DUI ticket that costs drivers $136. If the driver receives a second ticket within five years, the fine increases to $234.
Distraction is not just limited to electronics. Eating, drinking, and personal grooming also take drivers’ attention away from the road and other road users.
Target Zero reminds our community that road safety requires each of us to make safe choices. You can MAKE A DIFFERENCE! It is our goal in Washington to have ZERO people in your household involved in a serious or fatal crash.
- Model: Be a distraction free driver
- Discuss: Let friends know your strategies for driving distraction free
- Advocate: Say something, intervene if someone is driving distracted. Offer to navigate, change music, etc.
Take action to keep our families and friends safe. If you are driving and see a suspected impaired or unsafe driver, call 911. If you or someone you know struggles with substance abuse, there is help: Call 1-800-662-HELP