San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputies would like to share with motorists that April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Our San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department will be actively looking for drivers throughout the month who are in violation of the state’s hands-free cell phone law.
"In today's fast-paced life, it is common to lose focus while driving,” Sergeant Mark Addy said. “Distracted Driving Awareness Month is a crucial reminder that even a moment of inattention or a quick glance at the phone can lead to serious consequences. Let’s get off our apps and keep our eyes on the road. Before starting the car, silence your phone or put it in the glove box, trunk or back seat. Anywhere you can’t reach."
According to the 2023 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, more than 74% of drivers surveyed said that distracted driving because of texting was their biggest safety concern. In 2021, there were at least 140 people killed in distracted driving traffic crashes in California. The numbers are likely underreported because law enforcement officers may not always be able to tell that distraction was a factor in a crash.
Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle, even when stopped at a red light. This includes talking, texting or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine, and violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.
If you have an important phone call, text or email, or are in a situation with other distractions, such as looking up directions, pull over to a safe parking spot to complete the task without putting yourself and others at risk. Other distractions can be eating, grooming, reaching for something that fell on the floor, putting on or taking off clothing, talking with passengers, or children in the back seat.
Funding for distracted driving enforcement is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Stay Focused, Stay Safe:
Photo Courtesy of: CA Office of Traffic Safety
Put the Phone Away or Pay Publis Safety Logo with squad car and cell phone images.
Photo Courtesy of: CA Office of Traffic Safety
OTS Logo designed to look like a roadway above blue letters spelling out the Californioa Office of Traffic Safety.
By Stella Pierce, Community Writer
April 18, 2024 at 11:19am. Views: 490
April 18, 2024 at 11:19am. Views: 490
Related Articles
By William Cortez, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 460
San Bernardino County Fire and LifeStream Blood Bank are encouraging residents to donate blood this summer to help maintain the supply needed for local hospitals and emergency medical care.
By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 393
A landscaped streetscape reflects a blend of residential neighborhoods, local businesses and scenic mountain surroundings as the community plans for future growth.
By Stella Pierce, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 342
Grand Terrace residents enjoy a community gathering at a local park, where families, children and older adults come together for outdoor activities and neighborhood connections.
By William Cortez, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 386
Members of Colton’s 50+ Club enjoy a painting activity while sharing conversation and laughter, highlighting how recreation programs encourage creativity, friendship, and active community involvement among older adults.
By Stella Pierce, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 311
Colton residents take part in a City Hall Citizens Academy session, gaining an inside look at municipal departments, public services, and how local government works to serve the community.
By Stella Pierce, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 341
Summer days become lasting memories as Riverside children run, play and build new friendships through community recreation programs that keep young people active and connected while school is out.
By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 316
The season is underway. Moreno Valley student-athletes return to fields, courts and pools this August, bringing competition, teamwork and school pride back to campuses across the community.
By William Cortez, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 222
Redlands City Hall represents the center of municipal government as the city prepares for the November 3, 2026 election for City Council seats in Districts 1, 3 and 5.
By Stella Pierce, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 207
A hospital social worker speaks with a patient and family member during a private consultation, representing the important role social workers play in helping families navigate healthcare and recovery.
By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:12am. Views: 229
Nursing students practicing patient assessment in a realistic clinical simulation laboratory with an instructor observing.
By William Cortez, Community Writer
August 19, 2026 at 08:13am. Views: 230
A multidisciplinary hospital team participating in a realistic emergency resuscitation simulation. Physicians, nurses and respiratory-care professionals should be actively working around a medical simulation mannequin with monitors and emergency equipment visible. Natural hospital lighting, candid photojournalism composition, no identifiable patient, no text, logos or watermarks.
By Dr.G (Dr. Luis S González), Community Writer
August 12, 2026 at 07:52am. Views: 691
Karina Lorenzo Morales, Melissa Walker, Dr.G Council Member and Director, Kimberly Huerta, Evelyn Hernandez, Sofia Vega