Police Cracking Down On Distracted Driving In Hamden

HAMDEN, CT — The Hamden Police Department, along with the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Office, will be partnering with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration between April 1 and April 30 for the “U Drive. U Text. U Pay,” high-visibility enforcement campaign.

The campaign is both an educational initiative and enforcement effort to keep distracted drivers off of the road, according to police.

“The Hamden Police Department and the Connecticut Department of Transportation strongly urge motorists to stay off of their cell phone when getting behind the wheel,” Capt. Ronald Smith said. “If it’s necessary to talk on the phone or text, please park your motor vehicle in a safe location.”

Fines in Connecticut for violations begin at $150 for a first offense, increase to $300 for a second offense, and are $500 for subsequent violations.