State Police rounding out distracted driving campaign

The Massachusetts State Police are redoubling their efforts to enforce laws prohibiting distracted driving with a campaign through this Saturday, June 28.Troopers will particularly concentrate on detecting and citing drivers observed violating the Commonwealth’s ban on texting while driving. Troopers in marked and unmarked vehicles will show zero tolerance for offenders.”Massachusetts drivers should understand that this initiative is not focused on revenue enhancement, the goal of the operation is to educate the public, support the media campaign and save lives,” said Lt. Stephen Walsh, commander of the State Police Andover Barracks and the operational officer of the initiative. “Unfortunately, many motorists will not comply with the laws focused on distracted driving without the very real threat of penalties.”If you violate Massachusetts law by composing, sending or reading an electronic message while driving, you will get a ticket. Fines start at $100 for the first offense and go up to $500 for repeat violations.For more information on texting while driving and its prevention, including the demonstration grant to Massachusetts, visit www.distraction.gov.