Fort Smith, Ark. – The Fort Smith Police Department is joining a nationwide enforcement campaign aimed at reducing distracted driving, as part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration initiative.
The high-visibility enforcement effort coincides with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and will involve officers actively enforcing laws that prohibit texting and other forms of distracted driving.
According to the department, the campaign serves as a strong reminder that no text, call, or notification is worth a life. The goal is to reduce the number of preventable accidents caused by drivers who are not fully focused on the road.
“Distracted driving is dangerous and deadly,” the department stated. “Stay focused behind the wheel.”
To help drivers stay safe, officials shared several tips:
– If you’re expecting an urgent message, pull over and park safely before using your device.
– Have a passenger act as your “designated texter” to handle messages and calls while you concentrate on driving.
– Never scroll through social media or respond to messages while operating a vehicle.
– If tempted to use your phone, consider silencing notifications, turning on “Do Not Disturb” mode, or placing the phone in the glove box, trunk, or back seat.
The Fort Smith Police Department emphasized that distracted driving continues to be a significant threat to roadway safety, leading to thousands of injuries and deaths each year. Through education and enforcement, officials hope to encourage more responsible driving habits across the city.
As the awareness month continues, drivers are urged to think twice before picking up a phone or engaging in any behavior that might pull their attention from the road. The department’s message is clear: drive smart, drive focused, and help make Fort Smith’s roads safer for everyone.