RI State Police Stepping Up Texting And Driving Enforcement

In an effort to push back against distracted driving, Rhode Island State Police will be stepping up patrols to make sure Rhode Island drivers are not texting while driving or breaking the new hands-free driving law. Each day, at least nine people are killed in distracted driving-related crashes.

"Distracted driving has become a major cause of death and injury on our roadways, in large part because of hand-held cell phone use while driving," State Police Colonel James Manni said. "We hope this enforcement campaign will remind motorists to put down their phones while they drive."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 660,000 drivers across the country are using their phones while driving at any given time, which is the main cause of death and injuries in crashes. Each day, the National Safety Council estimates that nine people are killed and 100 people are injured in crashes caused by distracted driving.

"Cell phones, dashboard touchscreens, voice commands and other in-vehicle technologies pose a threat to our safety," the NSC report reads.

The Rhode Island State Police are taking part in the national U Text. U Drive. U Pay campaign from April 7 through 13, and will be increasing patrols across the state thanks to additional funding from the NHTSA in honor of Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April.

Texting while driving is particularly dangerous, the NHTSA said, because it takes a driver's eyes off of the road for approximately five seconds while reading or sending a text.

"Taking your eyes off the road for even a split second greatly increases the risk of getting involved in a crash," Colonel Manni continued. "Our goal is to remind everyone to put down their phones, avoid distractions and drive safely."

In Rhode Island, it is illegal to text while drive as well as hold any phone or electronic devices while behind the wheel. If caught breaking the law, drivers can face a fine of up to $100 or have their license suspended for up to 30 days.