South OC Times

Rancho Santa Margarita, Ca. (April 20, 2024): The Sheriff’s Department in Rancho Santa Margarita is intensifying its efforts to combat distracted driving, a perilous and unlawful behavior that poses a significant threat to road safety.

As highlighted by a statement from the department, they are focusing their attention on drivers engaging in activities such as talking, texting, or using apps on their phones, which are in violation of California's cell phone laws. The penalties for such offenses are substantial, with fines ranging from $162 for a first offense to at least $285 for a subsequent violation.

According to a 2018 survey conducted by Fresno State and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), nearly 5 percent of California drivers were found to be illegally using their phones while driving, either by talking or using their devices without hands-free technology. This statistic underscores the prevalence of distracted driving on the state's roads.

The Sheriff’s Department emphasized the importance of prioritizing road focus over distractions like phone use, eating, grooming, or adjusting various in-car devices. They advised drivers to pull over to a safe location if they need to attend to phone calls or navigation systems, urging individuals to silence their phones or place them out of reach to avoid temptation while driving.

Funding for the intensified distracted driving enforcement operation comes from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety, in collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Sheriff’s Department's proactive measures and enforcement actions aim to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and create a safer environment for all road users in Rancho Santa Margarita.