April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the Lombard Police Department is ramping up efforts to keep our roads safe. Officers will be out in full force this month, watching for drivers who are texting or otherwise distracted behind the wheel.
“Distracted driving is a serious threat to public safety and in 2023 it was responsible for 58 deaths in Illinois,” said Police Sergeant Tom Balsitis. “Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can have devastating consequences. We urge all drivers to stay focused and make safe driving their priority.”
Lombard Police remind drivers of three simple steps to prevent distracted driving: put your phone away, set your navigation before you start driving and stay focused on the road. Despite the risks, many drivers still use their phones while driving. In Illinois, it is illegal to use a handheld phone behind the wheel and violators can face fines and other penalties.
The Lombard Police Department is working with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the Illinois State Police, and more than 200 law enforcement agencies statewide to reinforce a simple message: Put the phone down and focus on the road. Throughout the month, drivers will see increased law enforcement efforts as officers stop and ticket anyone who violates distracted driving and other Illinois motor vehicle laws.
The Illinois distracted driving campaign is funded with federal traffic safety funds administered by IDOT.