Eyes on the road this spring

April is National Distracted Driving Month. Distracted driving has become a deadly epidemic on our roads. And it involves more than just texting while driving. Distracted driving can include: adjusting the radio, applying makeup, drinking coffee and talking on your cell phone.

From April 11 to 15, law enforcement agencies across America will also be making a special effort to identify and ticket anyone who insists on risking their safety and that of others by driving distracted.

More than 50,000 crashes were distracted driving-related from 2015-2019, contributing to one in seven crashes in Minnesota. In 2019, distracted driving contributed to 3,279 injuries and 32 deaths. Distracted driving contributes to an average of 40 deaths and 195 life-changing injuries a year (2015-2019).

With Minnesota’s “Hands-Free” law, which was enacted in 2019, it’s illegal for drivers to read, send texts and emails and access the web while the vehicle is in motion or a part of traffic. That includes sitting at a stoplight or stop sign.

The first ticket is more than $120, which includes the fine plus court fees. The second and later tickets are more than $300, which includes the fine plus court fees. There is also potential for increased insurance rates.

If you injure or kill someone under the hands-free law, you can face a felony charge of criminal vehicular operation or homicide.

To learn more about the “Hands-Free” law, click here.