The Manteca Police Department will be conducting traffic safety operations throughout the month of April focused on distracted driving.

“Staying focused behind the wheel is something we can all do.” Said Manteca Police Department Traffic Officer Jose Plascencia said. “Distracted Driving Awareness Month is an important reminder that even a moment of inattention or a quick glance at the phone can lead to serious consequences. Distracted driving is not only risky: it is deadly. Stay focused, stay alert and help us keep our roads safe.”

The 2024 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey found that nearly 74 percent of drivers surveyed said that distracted driving, because of texting, was their biggest safety concern.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention away from driving, including, but not limited to, texting or talking on the phone while driving.

Manteca Police Department will be actively looking for driver throughout the month who are in violation of the state’s hands-free cell phone law.

Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communication device while operating a vehicle, even when stopped at a red light. This includes talking, texting or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine and violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.