1620 5th AvenueThe California Highway Patrol and the Los Angeles Police Department are working together to crack down on distracted driving, according to sources. They are boosting enforcement resources for the second annual National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Police will enforce their zero-tolerance policy on all distracted drivers caught this month.
“We take the issue of distracted driving very seriously,” says LAPD Lt. Ronald Katona. “Is that text message or cell phone call really worth $159?”
Penalties for first timers is $159, but for multiple offenders the minimum fine is $279. Distracted driving is not only limited to cell phone use, however—anything that takes your attention away from driving is illegal, like eating, applying makeup or adjusting the radio.
“Recently, more people are distracted with technology,” said CHP Public Information Officer Rick Quintero. “Driving is multitasking as it is. That in itself takes a lot of work and attention.”
So keep this in mind not only through the end of this month, but always. Distracted driving is dangerous, and the result is often much more severe than a fine.
Bonnici Law Group, APC—San Diego personal injury attorney.
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