Bridgeport Police Announce April Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Bridgeport police will increase enforcement of distracted driving laws from April 1 through April 30 as part of a statewide campaign tied to National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The effort is part of the national “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign, which is being conducted in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Office.

During the monthlong campaign, the Bridgeport Police Department will add patrols and focus enforcement on drivers who are texting, using handheld devices or otherwise taking their attention off the road. The department said the goal is to identify and cite drivers engaging in those unsafe behaviors.

Bridgeport is participating in the broader statewide effort as Connecticut agencies mark National Distracted Driving Awareness Month with targeted traffic enforcement and public safety messaging.

“Driving requires your full attention every second you’re on the road,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Even a brief distraction, such as checking a notification or sending a quick text, can lead to devastating consequences. This campaign is a reminder that distracted driving is dangerous, illegal, and entirely preventable.”

Reducing distracted driving is a shared responsibility, officials said, urging drivers to put their phones down and stay focused, so everyone can travel safely.

Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving

• Pull over safely if you need to text or make a call. Never handle your phone while driving.
• Ask a passenger to assist with navigation or messages.
• Avoid checking social media while driving.
• Set up navigation and music before starting your trip.
• Use your phone’s “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature.
• Remember: a message can wait, your safety cannot.