Press Release

Thursday, April 1, 2021

GIVE THE PHONE A “BREAK.” APRIL IS DISTRACTED DRIVING AWARENESS MONTH

Turlock, California. – April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the Turlock Police Department encourages drivers to give the phone a break and focus on the road.

Throughout the month of April, the Turlock Police Department will have additional officers on patrol specifically looking for drivers who violate the state’s hands-free cell phone law.

Lieutenant Steve Rodrigues said, “When you are driving, give the phone a rest. A driver’s number one focus should be on the road. Anything that distracts you from the task of driving, especially a phone, puts yourself and others at risk.”

According to the 2020 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, more than 75% of surveyed drivers listed “Distracted Driving because of TEXTING” as their biggest safety concern.

“Not driving distracted is a simple but significant behavior change. The goal is to increase compliance with the hands-free cell phone law and keep people safe,” said Sergeant David Hall.

Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or other electronic device while behind the wheel. Drivers under 18 year old are not allowed to use a phone for any reason, including hands-free.
If you need to make a call or send a text, pull over and park at a safe location. Drivers should silence their phones or put the phone out of reach, such as the glove box or trunk.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.

To receive more detailed, up-to-date information directly from the Turlock Police Department via e-mail or text message, register for "Nixle" alerts at www.Nixle.com or more directly at https://local.nixle.com/register/.

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This information is being released by Turlock Police Department Sergeant David Hall.

Any media requests should contact:
Sergeant Michael Parmley
Office of Professional Standards
Turlock Police Department
Office phone - (209) 664-7345
Email – mparmley@turlock.ca.us

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