State police preparing for distracted driving crackdown
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The interchange where the Massachusetts Turnpike meets I-95
State police will deploy extra officers to Massachusetts roadways starting Sunday, multiplying law enforcement presence as a new distracted driving law kicks into effect.
At a Thursday press conference highlighting the imminent implementation of the law, Massachusetts State Police Col. Christopher Mason said the department would place "dozens of additional patrols" on the road to augment normally scheduled patrols. Some will include two troopers in a vehicle, allowing one to serve as a "spotter," he said.
"Our goal is for you to get home safely to the ones that you care about and the ones that care about you," Mason said.
The law, which Gov. Charlie Baker signed in November after lawmakers for years failed to reach agreement, forbids all handheld use of cell phones and other electronic devices behind the wheel, save for a single tap or swipe to activate hands-free mode.
Supporters say the stronger restrictions will force motorists to change their behaviors, cutting down on an epidemic of distracted driving that threatens drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians.
Police will only issue warnings for violations of the new law through March 31, after which they will begin issuing fines.
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