Put the Phone Down and Focus on the Road During September Enforcement Campaign

Law enforcement agencies across North Dakota issued 622 citations during the Sept. 1-30 Put the Phone Away or Pay distracted driving enforcement campaign.

Of the citations, 289 were issued for distracted driving. Additional citations included 141 for speeding and 33 for failure to wear a seat belt. There were also four arrests for driving under the influence.

Distracted driving citations, crashes and fatalities are preventable. Drivers can reduce distractions before they begin their trip by setting navigation, choosing music and putting their phone out of reach. Behind the wheel, a driver's attention should remain on the road and the task of driving.

High visibility enforcement uses visible, coordinated patrols to deter dangerous driving behaviors. Traffic fatalities and serious injuries are largely preventable if drivers and passengers take personal responsibility, including wearing a seat belt, securing children in appropriate car seats, driving distraction-free, driving sober and following posted speed limits.

Learn more about traffic safety initiatives at VisionZero.ND.gov or join the conversation on the Vision Zero ND Facebook page. Visit the North Dakota Crash Memorial Wall to view tributes to individuals lost to motor vehicle crashes.