Menifee PD Reports 82 Citations for Driver Cell Phone Use

A special deployment by the Menifee Police Department resulted in citations for 82 drivers for illegal use of their cell phones in the city during the month of April, the department announced today.

A news release last month stated that the department would deploy extra officers in an attempt to stop distracted driving. The previous announcement stated that "... many still use their cell phones and other mobile devices when they are behind the wheel, putting themselves and others at risk. Many drivers see distracted driving as risky when other drivers do it, but do not recognize how their own driving deteriorates."

At any given daylight moment across America, there are about 660,000 drivers using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving, according to authorities. The Menifee Police Department is focusing on ways to change the behavior of drivers through enforcement, public awareness and education – the same activities that have curbed drunk driving and increased seat belt use.

The Menifee Police Department suggests that drivers:

-- Turn off electronic devices and put them out of reach before starting to drive.
-- Speak up when you are a passenger and your driver uses an electronic device while driving.
-- Offer to make the call for the driver, so his or her full attention stays on the driving task.

Parents are encouraged to:

-- Be good role models for young drivers and set a good example. Talk with your teens about responsible driving.
-- If you know your teen is on the road, don’t call or text them until you know they have reached their destination.

Employers can:

-- Adopt, publicize, and enforce company policies that prohibit employees from texting or talking on hand-held cell phones while in a company vehicle, or in a personal vehicle while using a company-issued cell phone.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For more information about distracted driving, please visit www.distraction.gov.