15 Benton, Franklin drivers stopped in first week of distracted driving law
Troopers stopped 15 Benton and Franklin county drivers during the first week of enforcing the state’s new distracted driving law.
Statewide, 337 motorists were stopped, but only 27 were cited for violating the law, which went into effect July 23.
The new law, Distracted While Under the Influence of Electronics, is aimed at preventing crashes caused by motorists using cellphones, tablets and other electronic devices while driving.
Most of the drivers, including the 15 in Benton and Franklin counties, benefited from a six-month grace period the state patrol is extending to educate the public.
The rules change depending on whether it involves using electronic devices or other distractions. Drivers caught holding their phones can face a $136 fine for the first violation, and a $234 fine if they’re caught again within the next five years.
The violations will be reported to insurance companies as well.
The rule doesn’t prevent people from using hands-free devices, but does limit any other interaction with the phone to a single swipe.
Twelve of the Benton and Franklin drivers were using their phones, tablets or other devices.
The commission estimates 30 percent of fatal crashes are caused by inattention.
Other distractions can include anything that takes the driver’s eyes and mind off driving. While it carries a smaller fine, $99, it has drawn critics who said the government shouldn’t stop people from eating, drinking or grooming when they’re behind the wheel.
An officer would need to see bad driving, not a tab or equipment violation, and would need to determin that the bad driving was caused because the driver was driving dangerously distracted.
Washington Traffic Safety Commission
Traffic safety commission officials said the new law doesn’t work that way.
“An officer would need to see bad driving, not a tab or equipment violation, and would need to determine that the bad driving was caused because the driver was driving dangerously distracted,” the commission said.
While 15 people were stopped by the state patrol, it’s unknown how many were stopped by other local jurisdictions. Most are easing into enforcement of the new rule, but the method is different depending on where the violation occurs.
Franklin County sheriff’s deputies and Pasco police officers are actively looking for distracted drivers.
“Collectively, we will spend approximately the next two months educating the public on the new law and the dangers of distracted driving,” according to a statement from the sheriff’s office and the Pasco and Connell police departments. “This does not preclude officers and deputies from issuing citations if the situation deems necessary.”
In Kennewick, officers are using their discretion to determine if a ticket is needed.
“Ultimately, what we’re after is the correction of the behavior,” Sgt. Randy Maynard said.
Benton County and Richland police did not provide information in time for this story.
Cameron Probert: 509-582-1402, @cameroncprobert
This story was originally published August 9, 2017 at 6:01 PM with the headline "15 Benton, Franklin drivers stopped in first week of distracted driving law."