Full Notification

Officers from the Placerville Police Department will have increased patrols targeting distracted drivers, using their cell phones while driving throughout the month of June.

Perhaps you've seen the dramatic public service announcements on TV, which portray motor vehicle accidents involving distracted drivers? Here are some additional facts worth considering:

• In 2011, 3,331 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted driver, compared to 3,267 in 2010. An additional, 387,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted driver, compared to 416,000 injured in 2010.

• 18% of injury crashes in 2010 were reported as distraction-affected crashes.

• In the month of June 2011, more than 196 billion text messages were sent or received in the US, up nearly 50% from June 2009.

• 11% of all drivers under the age of 20 involved in fatal crashes were reported as distracted at the time of the crash. This age group has the largest proportion of drivers who were distracted.

• 40% of all American teens say they have been in a car when the driver used a cell phone in a way that put people in danger.

Please refrain from using your cell phone while driving, and remind others to do the same. "It's Not Worth It!"