Meridian Township Police officers are
utilizing a new tactic to identify distracted drivers. Officers patrolling in unmarked cars and
wearing civilian clothing are spotting distracted drivers. Uniformed officers in marked police cars
will then stop distracted drivers to take enforcement action.
Distracted driving is an increasing
cause of motor vehicle crashes in the United States. Enforcement of the law is difficult for
officers, because violations occur quickly and at times in heavy traffic areas.
This approach is being taken to encourage drivers to think twice before reading
or sending text messages because an officer may be in the car next to them.
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| Courtesy of AAA Exchange |
In 2012, 3,328 people were killed in
the United States in accidents involving a distracted driver. Distracted driving is a real issue that has a
serious impact on people’s lives. The
Meridian Township Police are implementing this proactive enforcement approach
to distracted drivers in an effort to reduce traffic crashes and injuries.
For more information on the effects of distracted drivers,
visit the official U.S. Government website for distracted driving at http://www.distraction.gov. or http://publications.michigantrafficcrashfacts.org/2013/2013CellPhoneUse-facts.pdf
for specific Michigan statistics.
