Illinois State Police Troop 9 will be conducting special distracted driving enforcement patrols in Wayne and Effingham counties throughout November. Troop 9 Commander Captain Bruce Waggoner announced the increased enforcement effort, which is designed to reduce traffic crashes, serious injuries and fatalities caused by distracted driving.
The Distracted Driving Enforcement Program allows troopers to focus specifically on motorists violating Illinois laws regarding distracted driving, including the illegal use of handheld electronic devices while operating a vehicle.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 3,000 people are killed annually in crashes involving distracted drivers.
Officials say reading a text message can take a driver’s eyes off the roadway for an average of five seconds, significantly increasing the risk of a crash. National statistics also indicate that nearly one in every ten injury crashes involves a distracted driver.
Illinois State Police remind motorists that distracted driving includes any activity that diverts attention away from the primary responsibility of operating a vehicle safely.
During the special patrols, troopers will be watching for drivers who violate Illinois distracted driving laws.
Motorists traveling throughout Wayne and Effingham counties are encouraged to put away their phones, remain attentive and avoid activities that could take their attention away from the road.
The special enforcement initiative is funded through the Illinois Department of Transportation as part of ongoing efforts to improve highway safety across the state.