July 2, 2025 Breaking News, Latest News, and Videos

Hands Off the Phone: SMPD Launches Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign

One Text Could Cost You: SMPD Goes Into Heightened Alert in April

The Santa Monica Police Department is stepping up enforcement efforts throughout April to crack down on distracted driving. As part of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the department urges motorists to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.

Officers will be on heightened alert for drivers violating California’s hands-free cell phone law. This law prohibits holding or using electronic devices while behind the wheel—even when stopped at a red light. Repeat offenders may face increased penalties, including points on their driving record.

“Staying focused behind the wheel is something we can all do,” the department said in a statement. “Distracted driving is not only risky — it is deadly.”

The enforcement push comes amid growing concerns over the dangers of distracted driving. According to the 2024 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, 74% of respondents cited texting while driving as their top traffic safety concern. In 2022, 148 people were killed in crashes involving distracted drivers across the state. Authorities believe the actual number is likely higher, as a distraction is often difficult to confirm after a collision.

Common distractions while driving include texting, eating, adjusting the radio, and using apps. Officers are reminding drivers that even a brief lapse in attention can have devastating consequences.

To promote safer driving habits, the department is encouraging motorists to follow a few key steps:

  • Silence notifications and keep phones out of reach.
  • Program GPS and adjust settings before starting the car.
  • Avoid eating, grooming, or multitasking while driving.
  • Set an example for others, especially teen drivers.
  • Speak up as a passenger if the driver becomes distracted.
  • Pull over to a safe location if urgent matters arise.

Funding for the initiative is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

in News
<>Related Posts

People are Using Palisades for “Disaster Tours.” Local Officials Are Trying to Stop Them

July 1, 2025

July 1, 2025

A new motion introduced to City Council requests a coordinated strategy from LADOT, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the...

Santa Monica Favorite Esters Rebrands as Esters Wine Shop & Oyster Bar

June 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

New Concept Launches With French-Spanish Flair and Free Bubbles Esters Wine Shop, the fave Parisian-style wine bar in downtown Santa...

Letter to the Editor: Santa Monica’s Great Park: It’s Time to Deliver on 100 Years of Promise

June 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

Santa Monica stands at the edge of history. For nearly a century, residents have consistently supported turning the airport land...

Why Nordstrom Says It’s Closing Its Santa Monica Place Location

June 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

A Nordstrom spokesperson explained the closure as a strategic realignment Nordstrom confirmed its decision to close its Santa Monica store...

Three-Bed Palisades Highlands Townhouse Hits Market for $1.7M

June 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

The Mediterranean-style property, located at 1529 Michael Lane, is part of a 71-unit community A remodeled 1,919-square-foot townhouse in the...

Six-Bed Mar Vista Hilltop Home Under Construction Lists for $5.3M

June 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

The private backyard is complete with a pool, spa, fire pit, built-in BBQ, and areas for outdoor dining A stunning...

(Video) Getty Villa Reopens Six Months After Dodging Destruction of Palisades Wildfires

June 29, 2025

June 29, 2025

With the reopening also comes a new exhibit, “The Kingdom of Pylos” Getty Villa Reopens Six Months After Dodging Destruction...

Free Virtual Planetarium Shows Coming to SMC in July

June 29, 2025

June 29, 2025

The virtual format is in place as construction of the new SMC Planetarium and Observatory nears completion The Santa Monica...

Santa Monica Adopts $793.3M Budget for FY25-27, Prioritizing Housing and Safety

June 29, 2025

June 29, 2025

The budget preserves core services and invests in major projects, including over $1 billion in hotel investments The Santa Monica...

Iranian Pastor in West L.A. Speaks as Church Rocked by Immigration Raids 

June 28, 2025

June 28, 2025

Five Detained as Fear Spreads Through Persian Christian Faith Community  Fear has spread through a West Los Angeles congregation after...

California Doubles Down on Hollywood: $750M in Tax Credits Approved for Film and TV Industry

June 28, 2025

June 28, 2025

State Lawmakers Back Major Expansion of Production Incentives, Raising Job Projections Los Angeles’ film and television industry is poised to...

Park: “Our Water Infrastructure Must Be Emergency-Ready Every Day”

June 28, 2025

June 28, 2025

Councilwoman expressed cautious relief at the news but emphasized the need for robust infrastructure The Los Angeles Department of Water...

Washington Square Pizza Opens to the Public

June 28, 2025

June 28, 2025

New York Style Pizza “By-The-Slice” Now at the Beach By Nick Antonicello  Washington Square Pizza formally opened its doors today...

California Allocates $5B for Road Repairs, Transit Expansion

June 28, 2025

June 28, 2025

The funding aims to improve road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and promote cleaner transportation California is investing nearly $5 billion...

THIS SUNDAY: Palisades Symphony Presents “Best of Broadway”

June 28, 2025

June 28, 2025

The performance will feature a full orchestra playing iconic selections, from John Philip Sousa’s *El Capitan* and George Gershwin’s *The...