ITD warns drivers - March Madness means more distraction on the road

BOISE - In conjunction with NHTSA's national distracted driving awareness month in April, the Idaho Transportation Department is reminding drivers to stay alert behind the wheel. Idaho's hands-free law* prohibits using a handheld device while driving, including during brief stops at traffic signals or stop signs.

Approximately 60 Idaho law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols through April 15 to reduce texting, scrolling, and other risky behaviors. Drivers can help by putting their phones away, activating "Do Not Disturb While Driving," and checking scores before they hit the road.

Driver analytics show that phone distractions consistently rise during major sporting events, including March Madness. During the first round, when games ran nearly all day, six of eight host cities saw noticeable increases in phone use while driving. In Round 2, distraction became more concentrated during evening game windows.

"The constant fear of missing out pulls our attention to the phone screen, and too often that screen is in a driver's hand," said Josephine Middleton, Highway Safety Manager with the Office of Highway Safety. "No score or news update is worth a crash."

First offence $75*

Second offence $150*

Third offence $300***

*Plus court costs and ** may be suspended for 90 days