SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Sacramento Police Department is reminding drivers to stay focused behind the wheel as April marks National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
Officials say distractions such as checking a phone, adjusting in-dash systems, eating or changing the radio can significantly increase the risk of crashes.
“Distracted driving continues to put everyone on the road at risk,” Sacramento police Sgt. Ken Collier said in a statement. “When drivers take their eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, lives can change forever.”
According to a 2025 statewide public opinion survey, nearly 71.4% of drivers identified texting or checking a phone as their top safety concern. In 2023, 158 people were killed in distracted driving crashes across California, a 6.8% increase from the previous year. Authorities note those figures may be underreported when distraction cannot be confirmed.
Throughout April, officers will increase enforcement of California’s hands-free driving law. The law prohibits drivers from holding a phone or electronic device while operating a vehicle, including when stopped at a red light. Violations can result in fines, and repeat offenses within 36 months may add a point to a driver’s record…