Arkansas Law Enforcement to Step Up Distracted Driving Enforcement During April Campaign

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Law enforcement agencies across Arkansas will increase enforcement of distracted driving laws from April 6-13 as part of a national campaign targeting texting and other phone use behind the wheel.

The enforcement effort is tied to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign and comes during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

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According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, officers statewide will work together during the campaign to enforce laws prohibiting distracted driving.

Distracted driving includes texting, cell phone use and other activities that take a driver’s attention away from the road.

NHTSA reported that 3,275 people were killed in 2023 in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers. An estimated 324,819 others were injured in those crashes, though officials said data collection limitations mean the true figures are likely higher.

“Distracted driving, mainly cell phone use, remains a major contributor to serious and fatal crashes,” Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar said. “It is dangerous and illegal, and puts everyone on the road at risk. Our officers will increase enforcement and stop and ticket anyone who is texting and driving. If you drive distracted, you will face the consequences.”

Officials encouraged drivers to avoid texting or reading messages while driving, pull over in a safe place before using a phone, let a passenger handle calls or messages when possible, avoid social media use behind the wheel and use “Do Not Disturb” mode to silence notifications.

Drivers were also encouraged to place their phones in the trunk, glove box or back seat to reduce the temptation to use them while driving.

In 49 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the Virgin Islands, texting while driving is illegal, according to NHTSA.

More information about distracted driving is available through NHTSA and the Arkansas Highway Safety Office.