The Mount Vernon, Indiana, Police Department and the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute are increasing patrols to reduce speeding and distracted driving.
As part of the Comprehensive Highway Injury Reduction Program, an ICJI initiative that provides federal funding for local traffic safety enforcement, officers will work overtime beginning April 4 through April 13, to identify and stop drivers who are speeding or violating Indiana’s Hands-Free Law.
Douglas Huntsinger, Executive Director of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, said,
“Distracted driving and speeding are preventable behaviors that put drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk. This campaign is a reminder that these actions have real consequences, and law enforcement officers are actively working to keep Indiana’s roads safe.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 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, which took effect in 2020, prohibits drivers from holding mobile devices while operating a motor vehicle. Calls may only be made using hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth, a headset, or another hands-free device.
To help prevent dangerous driving behaviors, ICJI and law enforcement encourage motorists to: put the phone down and avoid multitasking while driving; obey posted speed limits and adjust speed to road conditions; allow extra travel time, especially during busy commute periods; and keep a safe distance between vehicles.