The Fargo Police Department, along with many others throughout North Dakota and our country, will be conducting extra enforcement details looking for distracted drivers September 1-30.
Local and state laws prohibit anyone under the age of 18 to use a hand held device while operating a motor vehicle, except during an emergency.
City ordinance 8-0321 prohibits the operator of a motor vehicle that is part of traffic from using a wireless device to compose, read or send an electronic message, to include e-mail, text message, instant message, a command that requests access to the internet, or other data commonly recognized electronic communications protocol.
City ordinance 8-0322 requires an operator of a motor vehicle to maintain control of that vehicle without distraction at all times. Should one commit a traffic violation or be involved in a crash while engaged distracted may be issued a citation.
Drive Safe Every Trip
The Fargo Police Department and NHTSA urge you to put your phone down when you get behind the wheel. If you need to text, then pull over and do not drive. If you’re driving, follow these steps for a phone-free experience:
• If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location. Once you are safely off the road and parked, it is safe to text.
• Designate your passenger as your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
• Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
• Cell phone use can be habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Put the cell phone out of reach in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of the vehicle until you arrive at your destination.
Texting while driving is dangerous and illegal. Break the cycle. Remember: U Drive. U Text. U Pay.