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Hang up and drive, people

| April 21, 2021 1:00 AM

Extra Idaho State Police patrols will be on the road through April 30 to educate motorists and enforce Idaho's distracted driving laws, particularly Idaho's law that prohibits driving while using a cell phone.

Idaho's new distracted driving law went into effect last July and allowed citations for violators beginning Jan. 1. The law forbids drivers from using a cell phone or other electronic device at any time while their vehicle is in operation, even when stopped at a red light.

Since Jan. 1, ISP troopers have written 365 citations statewide specifically for 49-1401A, which is operating a motor vehicle while operating a mobile device.

In the same time frame, also for 49-1401A, troopers have given 338 warnings.

The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office has issued 33 citations since Jan. 1.

"Any activity that takes your attention away from the road is defined as distracted driving, and it only takes a moment or two for a distraction to cause a serious injury crash," said Lt. Chris Weadick of the Idaho State Police. "Whatever the temptation, the distraction just isn't worth taking your eyes or your mind away from driving."

A ticket is $75 for the first citation, $150 for a second.