The Ceres Police Department is stepping up its game against distracted driving this month, casting a watchful eye on drivers who are a little too involved with their devices instead of the road. This increased vigilance is part of the nationwide Distracted Driving Awareness Month, aimed to remind everyone on four wheels that taking your eyes off the road for even a second can spell disaster. "Staying focused behind the wheel is something we can all do," stated Ceres Police Traffic Sergeant Bryan Ferreira, in a social media post by the Ceres Police Department.
Distracted driving, it's deadly, not just a mere road nuisance. With a staggering 74% of California drivers citing texting as a major concern, as revealed by the 2024 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, the need for remedial action is clear. Even more alarmingly, Ceres PD references that in 2022, there were 148 lives tragically claimed in California due to distracted driving-related mishaps. Yet this number may just be the tip of the iceberg, as it's often difficult for law enforcement to pinpoint distraction as a crash factor.
Officers are actively looking for drivers violating the state's hands-free cell phone law. Drivers can't hold a phone while driving, even at stoplights. If caught using a phone, you'll face a fine. A second offense within three years will add a point to your driving record, which can raise your insurance rates.
The California Office of Traffic Safety, supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is funding efforts to keep drivers focused and safe. The goal is simple: avoid distractions, follow the law, and keep everyone safe on the road. The Ceres Police Department encourages drivers to break the habit of using phones while driving.
