Police Crack Down on Cell Phone Use on Santa Monica Roadways

Motorists in Santa Monica are on notice: Don't talk or text on cell phones while driving.

The Santa Monica Police Department's Traffic Enforcement Section will be cracking down on cell phone use during the months of April, May and June.

SMPD Lt. Jay Trisler said police will be enforcing a California law that bans texting or talking while driving without a handsfree device.

Police offered the following tips for safer driving:

• Turn off your phone and/or put it out of reach while driving.
• Include in your outgoing message that you can't answer while you are driving.
• Don't call or text anyone at a time when you think they may be driving.
• Adjust controls and set your song playlist before you set out on the road.
• Stay alert and keep your mind on the task of driving - often after a long day at work or a not so restful night's sleep, people's minds can wander when behind the wheel.
• If you find yourself daydreaming - clear your head and focus on the road.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month.