CHP On the Lookout for 'Zombie' Drivers

As reported in Belmont Patch earlier this week, April is , and local law enforcement will be especially focused on weeding out drivers who text, talk or otherwise use mobile phones while driving. 

According to the CHP, during the campaign kickoff month in April 2011, more than 52,000 citations were issued by law enforcement statewide, four times the monthly average.  A first time citation will cost a minimum of $159, with a second violation at least $279.

The CHP will be especially focused on taking enforcement action on what they call “zombie” drivers--inattentive drivers who endanger others on the road.

“Drivers need to ask themselves, ‘Is that phone call or text message worth my life or the lives of those around me?’” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. 

 “The answer is simple, it’s not worth it.  Every distraction affects a driver’s reaction time, and things can change without notice.”

According to a study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University, the act of talking on a cell phone can reduce more than 35 percent of the brain activity needed for driving.  Essentially distractions change a seemingly good driver into a “zombie” behind the wheel.

“Law enforcement sees firsthand the devastation caused by distracted driving and the needless pain associated with the senseless collisions that follow,” added Commissioner Farrow.  “I am grateful that so many of the state’s law enforcement agencies are joining us in this important traffic safety endeavor again this year.”

Adults are not the only offenders when it comes to distracted driving.  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, teen drivers are more likely than any other age group to be involved in a fatal crash where distraction was involved. 

This year, National Distracted Driving Awareness Month coincides with California Teen Safe Driving Week, which is the first week of April. For nearly five years, Impact Teen Drivers, a non-profit organization, has been providing awareness and education to teenagers, their parents, and community members about all facets of responsible driving, with the goal of reducing the number of injuries and deaths suffered by teen drivers as a result of distracted driving and poor decision making.

Commissioner Farrow added, "Don’t be “zombie” drivers; focus on the task of driving when you are behind the wheel.  Remember, whatever the distraction, “It’s Not Worth It!”

“The success of the campaign is measured by the number of lives saved.”

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