Vermont State Police Cracking Down on Distracted Driving

The Vermont State Police (VSP) has launched a targeted enforcement initiative aimed at reducing distracted driving on the state's roads. As part of this effort, VSP troopers will be conducting high-visibility patrols and checkpoints, with a focus on catching drivers who are texting, talking on their phones, or engaging in other distracting behaviors behind the wheel.

Between 2019 and 2022, there were 141 fatalities on Vermont roads, with 23 of those deaths attributed to distracted driving. According to the VSP, distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes and near-crashes in the state, and the enforcement initiative aims to reduce the number of crashes and save lives.

"Distracted driving is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences," said Colonel Matthew Birmingham, Deputy Commissioner of the Vermont State Police. "Our troopers will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to distracted driving, and we encourage all drivers to make safe choices and put their phones away while driving."

The VSP has been tracking distracted driving data for several years, and the numbers are alarming. Between 2019 and 2022, there were 27,467 crashes in Vermont that involved a distracted driver, resulting in 1,411 injuries and 23 fatalities. In addition, a survey conducted by the VSP found that 71% of drivers in Vermont admit to engaging in distracted driving behaviors while driving.

"We know that distracted driving is a widespread problem, and it's not just texting and driving," said Lieutenant Jeff Sewell, Commander of the VSP's Traffic Safety Unit. "Drivers are also prone to distractions like eating, grooming, or talking to passengers, and we need to do a better job of staying focused on the road."

As part of the enforcement initiative, the VSP will be using a combination of methods to catch distracted drivers. These include:

* High-visibility patrols: VSP troopers will be conducting regular patrols of high-risk areas, such as school zones and construction zones.

* Checkpoints: The VSP will be setting up checkpoints to identify drivers who are engaging in distracted driving behaviors.

* Traffic stops: Troopers will be making traffic stops to issue citations to drivers who are caught engaging in distracted driving.

The VSP is also working to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving through a public education campaign. This campaign includes:

* Public service announcements: The VSP is producing public service announcements to air on local television and radio stations, as well as social media.

* School presentations: Troopers will be visiting schools to educate students about the dangers of distracted driving.

* Community events: The VSP will be participating in community events to raise awareness about distracted driving and promote safe driving practices.

In addition to the enforcement initiative, the VSP is also working to identify and address the underlying causes of distracted driving. These include:

* Lack of public awareness: Many drivers are not aware of the risks associated with distracted driving or the severity of the consequences.

* Lack of enforcement: Until now, distracted driving has not been a priority for law enforcement in Vermont.

* Lack of policy: There are currently no statewide laws prohibiting handheld cell phone use while driving in Vermont.

The VSP is working to address these gaps by developing a comprehensive plan to reduce distracted driving in the state. This plan includes:

* Developing new policies: The VSP is working with the Vermont Legislature to develop new laws and policies that will prohibit handheld cell phone use while driving.

* Increasing enforcement: The VSP will be increasing enforcement efforts to catch distracted drivers and issue citations.

* Raising awareness: The VSP will be working to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving through public education campaigns.

"We're taking a proactive approach to addressing distracted driving in Vermont," said Colonel Birmingham. "We're committed to reducing the number of crashes and saving lives, and we need the public's help to make it happen."

What You Need to Know About Distracted Driving in Vermont

* Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes and near-crashes in Vermont.

* In 2022, there were 27,467 crashes in Vermont that involved a distracted driver.

* Distracted driving resulted in 1,411 injuries and 23 fatalities in Vermont between 2019 and 2022.

* 71% of drivers in Vermont admit to engaging in distracted driving behaviors while driving.

* Distracted driving is not just texting and driving – it can also include eating, grooming, or talking to passengers while driving.

How to Stay Safe on the Road

* Avoid using your phone while driving – put it on silent mode and keep it out of reach.

* Use a hands-free device if you need to make a call or listen to music while driving.

* Avoid eating, grooming, or talking to passengers while driving.

* Take breaks on long drives to rest and stretch your legs.

* Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions like billboards or other drivers.

Consequences of Distracted Driving

* Distracted driving can result in crashes, near-crashes, and fatalities.

* Distracted driving can also result in fines and penalties, including:

+ Fines ranging from $50 to $500.

+ License suspension or revocation.

+ Insurance rate increases.

* Distracted driving can also have long-term consequences, including:

+ Emotional trauma for crash victims and their families.

+ Financial burdens from medical expenses and lost wages.

+ Damage to your reputation and relationships.

Getting Involved

* Report distracted driving incidents to the Vermont State Police by calling 911 or reporting online.

* Participate in the VSP's public education campaign by sharing safe driving tips and resources on social media.

* Join the VSP's community outreach efforts by volunteering to educate others about the dangers of distracted driving.

* Advocate for stronger laws and policies to prevent distracted driving in Vermont.

By working together, we can reduce the number of crashes and save lives on Vermont roads. Stay safe, stay focused, and stay informed – and remember, driving is a serious responsibility.