Napa Police To Crack Down On Distracted Drivers

NAPA, CA— With April being Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the Napa Police Department announced its plans to crack down on drivers violating California's hands-free cell phone law.

Under current state law, drivers should not 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. Further, police said, distracted driving can have devastating consequences whether the distraction is checking a phone, eating or adjusting the radio.

"Staying focused behind the wheel is something we can all do,” Napa police Sgt. Aaron Medina said. “Distracted Driving Awareness Month is an important reminder that even a moment of inattention or a quick glance at the phone can lead to serious consequences."

Nearly 74 percent of drivers surveyed in the 2024 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey said distracted driving, because of texting, was their biggest safety concern. In 2022, there were 148 people killed in distracted driving traffic crashes in California. The numbers are likely underreported because law enforcement officers may not always be able to determine whether distraction was a factor in a crash.

The Napa Police Department plans to continue its crackdown throughout the month and reminded community members that using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine. Violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months results in a point being added to a driver’s record.

To stay focused behind the wheel, police offered these tips:

• Put your phone away: Silence notifications and store your phone where you can't reach it while driving.
• Plan ahead: Set your GPS, adjust mirrors and finish any tasks before you start driving.
• Keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road: Avoid eating, grooming or adjusting controls while driving.
• Be a role model: Show your passengers, especially young drivers, that focused driving is the norm.
• Speak up: If you’re a passenger and see the driver distracted, kindly remind them to stay focused.
• Pull over if necessary: If something urgent comes up, stop in a safe place before responding.

"Distracted driving is not only risky; it is deadly," Medina said. "Stay focused, stay alert and help us keep our roads safe."