JEFFERSON — Drivers in Jefferson Township should prepare for increased law enforcement activity throughout April as part of a statewide campaign targeting distracted driving.
The “Put the Phone Away or Pay” initiative, running from Tuesday, April 1 through Wednesday, April 30, coincides with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and focuses on reducing dangerous driving behaviors such as texting and handheld cellphone use.
Jefferson Township is among 126 municipalities across New Jersey awarded grant funding to support the effort, receiving $7,000 to enhance patrols and enforcement. Local police will be actively monitoring roadways for violations, particularly drivers using handheld devices for calls, messaging, or social media.
Officials say distracted driving remains a major safety concern statewide. In 2024, 42% of all crashes in New Jersey involved distracted drivers, leading to 175 fatalities and approximately 1,500 serious injuries.
Law enforcement in Jefferson will also be watching for other forms of distraction, including eating, adjusting in-vehicle controls, or interacting with passengers—behaviors that can significantly impair a driver’s focus.
Under New Jersey law, the use of handheld electronic devices while driving is prohibited. First-time offenders face fines between $200 and $400, with penalties increasing to as much as $800, along with three insurance points and mandatory court appearances for repeat violations.
The campaign has yielded significant enforcement results in prior years. During April 2025 alone, authorities issued 6,872 citations for cellphone use and 4,337 for careless driving.
Jefferson Township’s participation underscores a broader commitment to improving roadway safety and preventing avoidable accidents through both enforcement and public awareness.
