Pine Bluff, Arkansas – The Pine Bluff Police Department has joined forces with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to crack down on distracted driving through a high-visibility enforcement campaign running through April 14, 2025. As part of this effort, the department’s Selected Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Team will be actively patrolling and enforcing laws related to texting and driving.
The campaign’s message is clear: “Put the Phone Away or Pay.”
“Distracted driving is a leading cause of vehicle crashes on our nation’s roads, and most of this distraction can be attributed to cell phone use,” said Lieutenant DeShawn Bennett, Public Information Officer for the Pine Bluff Police Department. “People know using their phone while driving is dangerous and often illegal, but they do it anyway, and put themselves and others at risk. Drivers will see increased police efforts, as officers will be stopping and ticketing anyone who is caught texting and driving. If you text and drive, you will pay,” Bennett emphasized.
This local initiative coincides with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, observed each April to highlight the dangers and consequences of distracted driving behavior. The focus is not only on enforcing the law but also on encouraging safer habits and raising awareness among drivers of all ages.
How Drivers Can Stay Focused Behind the Wheel
To support this campaign and ensure every trip is a safe one, Pine Bluff Police and NHTSA are reminding drivers of a few simple but important safety tips:
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If you are expecting an urgent message, pull over and park in a safe location before using your device.
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Let a passenger handle your texts or calls by becoming your “designated texter.”
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Never engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
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Use your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature or silence all notifications before driving. Placing the phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat can also prevent temptation.
Drive Safe Every Trip
Pine Bluff Police urge every driver to take the dangers of distracted driving seriously. A moment of distraction can lead to lifelong consequences. Put the phone away and help keep the roads safe for everyone.
