Hamden Police - News Release
DATE: 10/15/21
CONTACT: Sean J. Dolan – Public Information Officer
PHONE: 203-230-4065
PIO #: 21-121
The Hamden Police Department, in conjunction with the Connecticut Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office, will be participating in the “PHONE IN ONE HAND…TICKET IN THE OTHER HAND” distracted driving campaign from October 15th thru October 31st.
The campaign is both an educational initiative and enforcement effort to keep distracted drivers off the road. Over the past decade, distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of vehicle crashes on our nation’s roads. In Connecticut in 2020, there were nearly 5,000 crashes attributed to distracted driving, according to the DOT.
Connecticut law prohibits the use of any hand-held mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers who are 16 or 17 years of age are prohibited from using a cell phone or mobile device at any time, even with a hands-free accessory. The Hamden Police Department reminds motorists to stay off the phone when getting behind the wheel. If it is necessary to talk on the phone or text, park your vehicle in a safe location first.
Violating Connecticut’s distracted driving laws can be costly. The fine for a first offense violator is $200.00. Fines increase to $375.00 for second offense violators. For someone that violates the law a third time, the fine is $625.00.
