Increased police enforcement set to nab texting and driving


Jamestown police are warning residents about the dangers, and the consequences, that result from texting while driving.

Local patrols are joining law enforcement agencies across the nation during the U.S. Department of Transportation’s “U Drive, U Text, U Pay” campaign from April 8-12. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 26,004 people died in crashes involving distracted driving between 2012- 19.

It is illegal in Rhode Island to talk on the phone while driving without a hands-free device. If drivers are seen talking into a cell phone while driving, they will receive a mandatory court appearance. Drivers who manipulate cell phones while driving, including texting and posting on social media, face a $100 fine. Jamestown police said drivers should pull over if they need to text.

“Texting while driving is illegal,” the department said in a press release. “No text or post is worth ruining someone’s day or taking a life.”