Scott Allen, Chief of Police
153 Central St.
East Bridgewater, MA 02333
For Immediate Release
Friday, March 31, 2017
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
East Bridgewater Police to Participate in Statewide Campaign Against Distracted Driving
EAST BRIDGEWATER — Chief Scott Allen announces that the East Bridgewater Police Department will participate in the Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign next month in an effort to remind residents to remain focused at the wheel.
As part of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, police will work to educate the community about risks involved with using a cell phone while driving in hopes of reducing the number of crashes, fatalities and injuries caused by distracted driving. The effort is run through the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Highway Safety Division to address a historic rise in fatal crashes fueled by distracted driving.
East Bridgewater Police received a grant from EOPPS to increase patrols throughout town targeting distracted drivers throughout the month of April. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that distracted driving fatalities are up 9 percent from 2015.
Massachusetts law prohibits drivers from writing, sending or reading electronic messages, using apps or browsing the Internet while driving, even if stopped at a light or in traffic. Drivers under 18 are prohibited entirely from using mobile phones and other electronic devices while driving. Fines for violating this law can be as high as $500 and teen drivers can also lose their license for up to one year.
“You are putting everyone around you, including yourself, in danger if you aren’t completely focused while behind the wheel,” Chief Allen said. “Please, keep your eyes on the road and if you absolutely need to use your phone, make sure you are pulled over safely.”
The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Highway Safety Division recommends that motorists:
- Turn your phone off and put it where you can’t reach it before driving.
- Let your friends and family know that you’ll be driving and can’t take their call/text.
- Pull over to a safe place if you have to make a call or send a text.
- Start GPS navigation or review maps before you start driving.
- Watch for pedestrians and bicyclists, especially at night.
- Remember to buckle up! Seat belts are your best defense against a distracted driver.
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