Wethersfield Cops 'Cracking Down' on Texting and Driving

WETHERSFIELD, CT — The Wethersfield Police Department and the the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Office, have announced the continuation of the “U DRIVE. U TEXT. U PAY”campaign.

Through the initiative, officers will be "cracking down" on motorists who "text, talk, or distract themselves with a hand-held mobile phone while driving," police said.

“Texting and driving is a public safety crisis. Our mission is to save lives and protect the public. Enforcing texting and driving laws is a critical priority for our department,” Lt. Michael Connolly said. “The

community will see an increased and highly visible law enforcement presence on our roadways with a focus on safety. Our Officers will be stopping and ticketing anyone who is endangering the public due to texting and driving. If you text and drive, you will pay.”

During the first wave of the campaign, in April, more than 10,000 citations were issued to motorists under Connecticut’s distracted driving laws.

The second run of the two-part campaign will run through August 15 and utilize special patrols.

More than 50 law enforcement agencies are participating.

Photo Credit: Chris Dehnel