OLYMPIA — Law enforcement agencies across the state will be conducting emphasis patrols focusing on distracted driving through April 8, according to a press release from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.
“The patrols are a reminder that distracted driving is a serious threat to community safety because it increases the risk of a serious crash,” the press release said. “The enforcement period is part of ongoing efforts to encourage focused driving and marks the beginning of Distracted Driving Awareness Month.”
The commission conducts a traffic safety survey each year, and in 2023 about 28 percent of drivers said they have been typing on their phones, or otherwise using them while driving. Washington has laws against holding cellphones or watching videos while driving, stopped in traffic or at a light. Hands-free use is limited to a single-touch device.
The ticket for a first offense of distracted driving is $136. A second infraction within five years would cost the driver $234.
