The Concord Police Department is urging motorists to stay focused behind the wheel as part of the National Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April.
Police said officers will increase enforcement efforts targeting violations of the state’s hands-free cell phone law, which prohibits drivers from holding electronic devices while operating a vehicle, even at a stoplight.
“Distracted driving continues to put everyone on the road at risk,” Concord Police Chief Mark Bustillos said in a statement, warning that even brief distractions can lead to serious consequences.
According to a 2025 statewide survey, more than 70% of drivers cited texting or phone use as their top safety concern. Authorities said 158 people were killed in distracted driving crashes in California in 2023, a 6.8% increase from the previous year.
Officials reminded drivers to silence or store their phones, set navigation before driving, and avoid activities such as eating or adjusting controls while on the road.