July 8, 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

Anti-Drunk Driving Resolution Introduced as City Council Honors Late Palisades Teen Killed in Crash

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

Levi, who was set to attend the University of Virginia this fall, was killed by a drunk driver on May...

Free and Reduced Price School Meals Available for Eligible Families in Santa Monica-Malibu District

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

Parents in Need Encouraged to Apply, SMMUSD Commits to Nutritious, Accessible Meals By Brandyi Phillips, SMMUSD Chief Communications Officer Santa...

Big Blue Bus to Raise Fares for First Time in Nearly a Decade

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

The fare increase aims to offset rising costs for fuel, utilities, and supplies, according to the agency. The Santa Monica...

Shore Hotel: A Local Destination for Summer Fun

July 8, 2025

July 8, 2025

Bring on all things summer. Walking or biking along Santa Monica Pier, you might find yourself taking a pause at...

Santa Monica’s 150th Anniversary to be Celebrated with Vibrant State of the City Event

July 7, 2025

July 7, 2025

Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, beach chairs, and picnics to enjoy during the performances Santa Monica will mark its...

Soprano Golda Zahra Returns to BroadStage For a One-Night-Only Musical Celebration

July 7, 2025

July 7, 2025

Hailed as “the rising star of the opera world” by The Hollywood Times, internationally acclaimed soprano Golda Zahra makes her much-anticipated return to BroadStage in...

(Video) Hundreds of Drones Light up the Sky for Palisades to Celebrate July 4th

July 7, 2025

July 7, 2025

The Event Marked One of the First Large Gatherings Among Palisadians Since the January Wildfires. The Event Marked One of...

Transform Your Life: The Free Virtual ONENESS GLOBAL SUMMIT Debuts July 18-20, 2025

July 7, 2025

July 7, 2025

The ONENESS GLOBAL SUMMIT, a transformative three-day virtual event, is coming, July 18-20, 2025, offering participants worldwide a free opportunity...

Santa Monica Home Defies Convention: Architect Eric Owen Moss Debuts Shape-Shifting Design

July 7, 2025

July 7, 2025

Pistachio-Colored Marvel Boasts Curving Walls, Sharp Angles, and Challenging Design A striking residence in Santa Monica is turning heads with...

Caitlyn Jenner’s Friend and Former Foundation CEO Dies in Malibu ATV Crash

July 7, 2025

July 7, 2025

ATV Plummeted 350 Feet After Rear-Ending Vehicle in Malibu Sophia Hutchins, former CEO of the Caitlyn Jenner Foundation and longtime...

New SaMo Bridge Program Refers 56 People in First Month; 37 Connected to Services

July 7, 2025

July 7, 2025

According to city officials, the program is on pace to meet its goal of serving 260 individuals annually Santa Monica’s...

Multi-Family Venice Property on Rare Double Lot Lists at Over $5M

July 7, 2025

July 7, 2025

In total, the four units provide 5,398 square feet of living space A multi-family property located one block from Venice...

Hama Sushi Hosts Weekly Music and Comedy Open Mics

July 5, 2025

July 5, 2025

The venue, a Venice Beach staple since 1979, has recently expanded its legendary happy hour to the entire patio Hama...

Connections Breakfast to Network Local Business Professionals in Malibu

July 5, 2025

July 5, 2025

The event, sponsored by Malibu Country Mart, will feature a breakfast mixer where attendees can meet new contacts  A Connections...

12th Annual Gopher Scramble Golf Tournament to Benefit Venice Heritage Museum

July 5, 2025

July 5, 2025

The museum opened to the public in March 2024 at the Main Street Design Center with its inaugural exhibition, “This...