JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Law enforcement across the state will have extra patrols to enforce the law on distracted driving for the U Drive. U Text. U Pay. enforcement period September 4-30.

Distracted driving is dangerous and often deadly. During April’s enforcement period, 174 citations were issued for distracted driving. Distracted driving takes on many forms; however, texting is one of the most common across the nation and is illegal in North Dakota.

“If you are a passenger in a vehicle, speak up and volunteer to handle the electronics, including cell phones, so the driver can focus on the road,” says Jamestown Police Chief Scott Edinger. “If you’re driving by yourself, put your phone in the back seat, glove box, or trunk to avoid distraction. These are all ways take responsibility on the road.”

This campaign is part of the Vision Zero strategy to eliminate motor vehicle crash fatalities and serious injuries on North Dakota roads.

Visit the North Dakota Crash Memorial wall to view memorials built on the hope of preventing another death on North Dakota roads.