The Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office has launched a new statewide initiative to curb distracted driving. The campaign, titled “Put the Phone Away or Pay,” will run from October 19–25 and combines education with high-visibility enforcement to remind drivers of the dangers and legal consequences of using phones behind the wheel.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says 3,275 people were killed in distracted driving crashes nationwide in 2023, including 611 pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers ages 15 to 20 had the highest rate of distraction in fatal crashes.
“Distracted driving, especially using a phone while driving, remains one of the deadliest risks on our roads,” said Colonel Mike Hagar, Arkansas Public Safety Secretary and the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “Fewer distracted drivers means safer roadways. Period.”…