Maine Police Increasing Distracted Driving Enforcement In April

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and Maine officials are reminding drivers to keep their eyes on the road as enforcement efforts ramp up across the state.

According to the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, distracted driving continues to be a serious concern. From 2021 to 2024, there were 52 fatal crashes involving distracted drivers on Maine roads, resulting in 55 deaths.

To address the issue, law enforcement agencies statewide will increase patrols from April 9 through April 13. Officers will be specifically looking for drivers who are texting, using phones, or otherwise distracted behind the wheel. The effort is part of the national “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign, aimed at reducing distracted driving and improving road safety.

“The driver’s focus shouldn’t be on their phone, it should be on the road,” said Carrie Bernier, Distracted Driving Program Manager. “Nothing on your phone is worth the risk to yourself and to other people on the road. It’s dangerous.”

Officials say even a quick glance at a phone can significantly increase the risk of a crash. The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety is encouraging drivers to put phones away before starting their trip. If a message needs to be sent, they recommend pulling over to a safe location first.

Highway Safety Director Lauren Stewart emphasized the simple message behind the campaign.

“When you’re driving, just drive. Everything else can wait,” Stewart said.

Officials hope the increased enforcement and awareness efforts throughout April will encourage drivers to make safer choices and help reduce distracted driving crashes across Maine.