Yakima Police Launch April Campaign to Combat Distracted Driving

Pay attention to the road when driving. That's what Yakima Police say as they begin a month long emphasis looking for distracted drivers in April. Yakima Police warn that it takes just five seconds to read a text, and in that time, a car traveling at city speeds can cover about 220 feet—roughly three-quarters of a football field.

THE PROBLEM ISN'T JUST YOUR PHONE

Officers say distractions aren't only from electronics; eating, drinking, and grooming also divert drivers' attention from the road and others.  In fact professional golfer Tiger Woods was involved in a recent crash in which he says he was looking at his phone and changing the radio station when the accident happened.

READ MORE: SPECIAL EASTER TROLLEY RIDES IN YAKIMA

APRIL IS DISTRACTED DRIVING MONTH WITH SPECIAL PATROLS

More than 150 agencies in the state are now watching to see if you're talking or texting and driving or doing anything else that takes your attention from the wheel. Yakima Police Officers are conducting extra patrols to keep drivers safe.
Officers say they see the violations every day in Yakima and throughout the state. They say focused driving is safe driving.

DROP THE PHONE GRIP THE WHEEL

A Yakima Police Facebook post says the number one thing drivers can do to remain safe on the road is "put the phone away while driving. Help others do the same if you are a passenger." A state report shows distracted driving has increased in Washington but that probably isn't a surprise to anyone.
Police say any activity that diverts attention from driving is considered distracted driving.