Distracted Driving Enforcement Coming To Shrewsbury

SHREWSBURY, MA — Shrewsbury police this week will begin increasing enforcement of the state's hands-free driving law, courtesy of a state grant.

Shrewsbury recently received a grant from the governor's Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to boost distracted driving patrols. The grant will pay for certain officers to focus solely on distracted driving on top of the usual number of police patroling in town.

"One of the main goals of the officers assigned to these patrols will be enforcement of texting while driving, as well as other “hands free” law violations. In addition to enforcement, our department will also take an educational approach," the department said Wednesday.

The hands-free driving law went into effect in 2020, outlawing activities like texting and driving and holding a phone while driving — and stranger activities, like eating or reading a book while driving. A fine for a initial offense is $100, although police can choose to waive the first ticket. But repeat offenders can face fines up to $500, plus insurance surcharges.

The special enforcement begins this week and will last through April, the department said.

Related: Shrewsbury Police To Step Up Enforcement Near Crosswalks