Distracted Driving Awareness Month prompts expanded presence from KSP

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the Kentucky State Police is participating in a nationwide traffic safety campaign as part of efforts to raise awareness.

Now through April 13, the KSP is participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort), an initiative coordinated through the International Association of Chiefs of Police designed to reduce preventable crashes by addressing dangerous driving behaviors.

According to the KSP, troopers will be strategically placed along Kentucky roadways in order to identify and stop unsafe driving behaviors before they can lead to crashes. Although Kentucky formally banned texting while driving in 2010, cellphone use while driving remains a persistent issue. The KSP Says collision data indicates in 2025 there were more than 5,500 crashes attributed to distracted driving or cell phone use, with 18 of those crashes resulting in fatalities.

The KSP encourages drivers to make safe choices behind the wheel. Stop in a safe location before sending or reading a text message. Ask a passenger to be your “designated texter” and manage your phone during the drive. Put your cellphone in the glove box or back seat in order to break habits.

If you see someone driving recklessly or distracted, report it to local law enforcement or your nearest KSP post. Learn more about Operation C.A.R.E. and other safety initiatives on the KSP’s website.