Darien Police Launch Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign

DARIEN, CT — We may be a few weeks away from the start of school, but the Darien Police Department is already making sure motorists are in the habit of avoiding distracted driving.

Starting today and running through August 15, the department, in addition to departments across the entire state, will be conducting a "Distracted Driving - High Visibility Enforcement Campaign." The message being, the use of hand-held cell phones or mobile electronic devices is illegal while operating a motor vehicle in Connecticut.

Hand-held Ban

The state of Connecticut has prohibited all drivers from using hand-held cell phones. The law makes it illegal for all drivers to text or talk on a hand-held cell phone. Drivers are allowed to use hands-free cell phones.

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Novice Drivers

Drivers under the age of 18 are not allowed to text or talk on a hand-held cell phone. Unlike adult drivers, novice drivers can't use hands-free cell phones. In addition, novice drivers are prohibited from using any other electronic device while behind the wheel. This is also a primary law.

Text Messaging

Texting while driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents, which is why there is a primary law that makes this activity illegal. All drivers, including adult, novice and school bus drivers, are prohibited from texting while driving.

School Bus Drivers

School bus drivers are prohibited from using both hand-held and hands-free devices, except in emergencies. This is a primary law, as well.

Image via Darien Police Department