News

Police increasing patrols to crack down on distracted driving

Police across the state are adding extra patrols for the next three weeks to crack down on distracted driving.

State and local police will conduct a series of special patrols to help catch texting, dialing and reading text message offenders.

"Distracted driving is fast becoming one of the leading causes of injury and death on the state's roads," said Jeff Larason, Massachusetts Highway Safety Director. "By using data, local and State police will be able to pinpoint where these crashes are occurring and focus their patrols in those areas.”

Massachusetts state law prohibits adult drivers from writing, sending, or reading electronic messages, interacting with apps or browsing the Internet while driving or stopped at a light or in traffic.

Teen drivers under 18 are prohibited entirely from using mobile phones and other electronic devices while driving. Fines go as high as $500 and teen drivers can also lose their license for up to one year.

The three-week effort is being funded by a $622,000 grant from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as part of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

Governor Charlie Baker has proclaimed April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month.