Dixon Police To Target Drivers Who Text or Talk on Cell Phones

By Bay City news          

Dixon police will be targeting drivers who are talking on cell phones or text messaging on Monday and Tuesday.

The "zero tolerance for distracted drivers" statewide campaign runs through April.

More than 225 local law enforcement agencies and 103 California Highway Patrol commands are participating in the zero tolerance for distracted driving campaign this month.

Dixon police also will target distracted drivers on April 14 and 28.

"We take the issue of distracted drivers seriously," Dixon Police Chief Jon Cox said. "Cell phone use and texting while driving is such a serious concern that we are putting officers on the road to enforce zero tolerance. Is that text message or cell phone call really worth $159?"

The minimum cost for texting or talking on a cell phone without a headset is $159. Subsequent tickets cost at least $279.

Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to be injured in crashes and drivers younger than 20 years old are the most likely to be involved in distraction related fatal crashes, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety.

Studies also show there is no difference in the risks between hand-held and hands-free conversations because drivers are concentrating on the conversation, not the road, Office of Traffic Safety Director Christopher Murphy said.

"Think about the vast majority of calls and texts you send and receive everyday. Were any really worth a $159 ticket - or worse a crash, injury or death? It's just not worth it," Murphy said.