Indiana launches campaign against distracted driving

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI), Indiana State Police (ISP), and local law enforcement are partnering to increase patrols aimed at reducing speeding and distracted driving as part of the annual Indiana Safer Roads Campaign, supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Thanks to an ICJI initiative providing federal funding for local traffic safety enforcement, officers statewide will work overtime from April 4 to April 13, to identify and stop drivers who are speeding or violating Indiana’s Hands-Free Law.    

“Distracted driving and speeding are preventable behaviors that put drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk,” said ICJI executive director Douglas Huntsinger.   

According to NHTSA, Indiana recorded 249 speeding-related fatalities in 2023, and distracted driving accounted for 47 fatal incidents. However, limitations in data collection suggest that the actual number of deadly crashes caused by distracted drivers is likely higher than reported.    

Indiana’s Hands-Free Law prohibits drivers from holding mobile devices while operating a motor vehicle. Calls may only be made using hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth or a headset.    

To help prevent dangerous driving behaviors, ICJI and ISP encourage motorists to:    

• Put the phone down and avoid multitasking while driving
• Obey posted speed limits and adjust speed for road conditions
• Allow extra travel time, especially during busy commute periods
• Keep a safe distance between vehicles