U Drive. U Text. U Pay.

Ellsworth Military Base.

By Police Chief Johnnie Torres

It’s summer break and time to talk about the very serious matter of distracted driving. Distracted driving laws don’t just prohibit texting and driving. The Michigan Vehicle Code (Section 257.602b) also prohibits reading, typing, or sending messages while driving on the roadways.

While the civil fine for violating this law is minimal at first, it increases with each subsequent offense. More importantly, the offense can be deadly. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,450 lives in 2016 alone, and cell phone use is highest among 16 to 24 year olds. Students are certainly in that age bracket, but don’t let this age statistic lead you to believe that adults are not committing this offense as well, because they are.

Also, females beware. According to a 2015 study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, females who are using a cell phone while driving are more likely than men to be involved in a crash. And here is something to consider: At 55 mph taking your eyes off the road to type, send, or read a text for five seconds, is like traveling the length of a football field with your eyes closed. Scary.

Texting or other distractions while driving has reached epidemic levels. It’s time for all drivers to take this offense seriously. Students, make a pledge that you won’t text and drive. Pledge also that you will say something to any friend or family member who is driving distracted—the same as if they were driving while intoxicated.

Parents must lead by example and never drive distracted. Talk with your young driver(s) about distractions and all of the responsibilities that come with driving. Consider having everyone in the family sign a pledge to commit to distraction-free driving. Remind your teen driver that a violation while having a graduated driver’s license (GDL) could mean a delayed or suspended license.

If we all commit to taking just a few simple steps like these, we will protect loved ones’ lives and help keep others safe while on the roadway this summer. And remember: U Drive. U Text. U Pay.

Be vigilant; be safe.

Chief John Torres, a native of Flint, began his career as a reserve police officer before joining the City of Lansing Police where he served for more than 14 years. He joined the Stockbridge Police Department in 2009 and became its chief in 2011. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan-Flint and is married with two adult children.