Los Angeles police reminded drivers Wednesday to remain alert while on the road as April 1 marks the beginning of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The Los Angeles Police Department will actively look for drivers who violate the state’s hands-free cell phone law throughout the month.
The Los Angeles Police Department cited information from the 2025 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, reporting that 71.4% of motorists surveyed said distracted driving caused by texting or checking a phone notification was a high-alert safety concern. Distractions like checking a phone, using the in-dash touchscreen or car phone app, adjusting the radio, or eating can have devastating consequences.
“Distracted driving continues to put everyone on the road at risk,” Captain Yvonne Ortiz said. “When drivers take their eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, lives can change forever. We’re reminding our community that safety starts with each of us. Put the phone down, limit distractions, and help people get home safely.”
In 2023, there were 158 people killed in distracted driving crashes in California, a 6.8% increase from the previous year. The numbers are likely underreported because law enforcement officers may not always be able to determine if distraction was a factor in a crash.
Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or other electronic device while operating a vehicle, even when stopped at a red light. This includes talking, texting, or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving can result in a fine, and if a driver violates the hands-free law a second time within 36 months of a previous conviction for the same offense, an additional point will be added to their record.
The California Highway Patrol will also be out in force in April making sure drivers are paying attention to the roads, not their phones. The CHP issued over 111,700 citations for distracted driving in 2025, nearly 20% more than in 2024.
“Every crash caused by distracted driving can be avoided,” CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee said. “Too often, drivers look away from the road, risking their lives and those of others. No text, call, or notification is more important than safety.”
The monthlong emphasis on distracted driving will include a “zero tolerance” enforcement period between April 6 and April 13, as well as a 24-hour “maximum enforcement period” beginning at 6 a.m. on April 28.
Police recommend drivers put their phone away, silence notifications and store the device where it can’t be reached while driving. Other tips include planning ahead by setting GPS devices and adjusting mirrors before driving, keeping both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, and avoiding eating, grooming, or adjusting controls while driving.
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