FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Michelle Woods Matthews
E:mwoods-matthews@townofstratford.com
C:(475)319-5804
Stratford Police Department Kicks off Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign
Local Effort to Support Statewide Initiative Urges Drivers to Stay Focused During National Distracted Driving Awareness Month
STRATFORD, Conn. — April 1, 2026 -- The Stratford Police Department will ramp up enforcement of distracted driving laws beginning today, as part of a statewide campaign for National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
As part of the national “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign, conducted in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Office, the Stratford Police Department will increase patrols and enforcement through April 30, 2026. During this period, enforcement will focus on identifying and citing drivers who engage in unsafe behaviors such as texting, using handheld devices, or otherwise taking their attention off the road.
“We will be ramping up our distracted driving laws throughout April,” said Traffic Lieutenant Ariel Leon of the Stratford Police Department. “Reducing distracted driving is a shared responsibility to make our community safer for everyone. We urge drivers to make safe choices behind the wheel, including putting away phones, limiting distractions, and focusing on the road.”
“Driving requires your full attention every second you’re on the road,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Even a brief distraction, such as checking a notification or sending a quick text, can lead to devastating consequences. This campaign is a reminder that distracted driving is dangerous, illegal, and entirely preventable.” Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving
• Pull over safely if you need to text or make a call. Never handle your phone while driving.
• Ask a passenger to assist with navigation or messages.
• Avoid checking social media while driving.
• Set up navigation and music before starting your trip.
• Use your phone’s “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature.
• Remember: a message can wait, your safety cannot.
For more information about distracted driving prevention, visit
https://portal.ct.gov/highwaysafetyoffice/traffic-safety-programs/distracted-driving
# # #