Wheaton Cops To Crack Down On Distracted Driving

WHEATON, IL — Wheaton police plan to crack down on distracted drivers during a safety initiative that runs March 20 through March 26.

During this time, police will increase enforcement to help spot and ticket drivers who are distracted. In a news release, Wheaton police stressed that cellphones can become "habit-forming." They recommend the following pointers to avoid having your attention diverted because of a cellphone:

• Put your phone in "Do Not Disturb" or "Driving" mode
• Place your phone out of reach until you get to your destination

The news release emphasized that "no conversation or text is worth the potential danger created by distracted driving." While cellphone use is a leading factor in distracted driving, police also cite other activities, including eating, drinking, putting on makeup or programming a GPS as potentially risky activities for drivers.