‘We need your help': Connecticut police step up distracted driving enforcement
Connecticut is launching a new distracted-driving enforcement campaign with increased patrols statewide, as police point to a dramatic crash involving a state police cruiser as another reminder of the danger.
The enforcement effort includes 37 law enforcement departments across Connecticut looking for distracted driving on roadways this month. A grant from the Department of Transportation will cover overtime to increase enforcement, reviving an initiative from last year.
Police highlighted the damage to a state police cruiser on the Merritt Parkway in Stamford on Wednesday morning after they said it was hit by a speeding and distracted driver. (Read more about what happened here.)
“You can barely tell it’s a car, let alone a cruiser,” Connecticut State Police Major William Utermarck said. “We’re very grateful there’s no serious injuries and our trooper was not in the car at the time of impact.”
Regarding the enforcement campaign, Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said last year’s effort resulted in nearly 10,000 distracted-driving citations in one month.
The renewed push comes as distracted driving remains a widespread concern. Nearly 9 in 10 drivers say phone use behind the wheel has increased in the past year, according to a Nationwide study.
State leaders said distracted driving goes beyond cellphones and includes anything that takes a driver’s eyes off the road.
“I drive all around the state of Connecticut. I frequently see men shaving while they’re driving. Women putting on makeup. People eating very large sandwiches,” Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz said.
At a news conference, transportation leaders also raised concerns about in-vehicle display systems, including drivers using screens for entertainment while behind the wheel.
“Anything that comes out on that display would be considered distracting,” Utermarck said. “Changing the song on Apple iTunes or looking at a video or whatever it may be, any of those things are distracting.”
At the Capitol, HB5463 is moving through the process that would crack down on drivers who use devices to watch videos on their car displays while driving.
Rep. Kathy Kennedy said the goal is to strengthen the distracted driving laws and keep them up to date with modern technology. The DOT supports the legislation.
“I hope that those will reach the chamber at some point before this session concludes,” Kennedy said. A committee sent the bill to the floor last month.
Kennedy also demonstrated how even a brief distraction can affect control behind the wheel.
Officials said stronger laws and increased enforcement may get drivers’ attention, but changing behavior is what will save lives.
“We cannot ticket and arrest our way out of this problem. We need your help,” Utermarck said.
From breaking news and local politics to art exhibitions, live music, high school sports, small businesses, and cultural events, we celebrate the people and places that make Connecticut unique.