Throughout April, in honor of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the EPPD will designate specific shifts for officers to focus solely on looking for distracted drivers.

Unfortunately, distracted driving continues to be a problem in our state and community. Preliminary figures show there were 26 distraction-related fatalities on Minnesota roadways and 101 serious injuries in 2021. In Eden Prairie, officers issued 206 citations and written warnings for distracted driving throughout the year.

The first ticket for distracted driving is more than $120, which includes the fine plus court fees. The second and later tickets are more than $300, which includes the fine plus court fees. If you injure or kill someone because of texting and driving, you can face a felony charge of criminal vehicular operation or homicide.

Remember: It is illegal to have your phone in your hand while you’re driving. This includes when you are sitting at a stoplight, stop sign or in traffic.

While phones are the most widely discussed distraction, there are other ways in which drivers can become distracted, including:

• Music and other controls. Pre-program favorite radio stations for easy access and arrange music in an easy-to-access spot. Adjust mirrors and heat/AC before traveling, or ask a passenger to assist.
• Navigation. Designate a passenger to serve as a co-pilot to help with directions. If driving alone, map out destinations in advance.
• Eating and drinking. Try to avoid consuming food and beverages, in particular messy foods, and be sure food and drinks are secured.
• Children. Teach children the importance of good behavior in a vehicle; do not underestimate how distracting it can be to tend to children while driving.

The EPPD would like to remind all drivers that when you are driving, your ONLY responsibility is to drive. Please keep this information in mind and drive safely!