Police Cracking Down On Distracted Driving In Meriden

MERIDEN, CT — The Meriden Police Department will ramp up enforcement of distracted driving laws beginning April 1, as part of a statewide campaign for National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, officials announced.

As part of the national “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign, conducted in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Office, Meriden police will increase patrols and enforcement from April 1 through April 30, 2026.

“During this period, enforcement will focus on identifying and citing drivers who engage in unsafe behaviors such as texting, using handheld devices, or otherwise taking their attention off the road,” according to a news release.

Read more from the news release below:

“Driving requires your full attention every second you’re on the road,” Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said. “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.”

The Meriden Police Department encourages all drivers to make safe choices behind the wheel, including putting away phones, limiting distractions, and focusing on the road.

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.