Tennessee Highway Safety Office Launces Operation Hands-Free

Press Events and Distracted-Driving Enforcement Bus Tours Kicked Off in Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, Knoxville

On Wednesday, April 1, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) and Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), divisions of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, partnered with Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), local law enforcement, and other traffic safety partners for "Operation Hands Free" to crack down on violators of Tennessee's Hands-Free Law during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. To kick off the campaign, the THSO hosted press events in Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, and Knoxville followed by distracted driving enforcement bus tours.

"Eight people died last year to date from crashes involving distracted driving in Tennessee," said THSO Director Buddy Lewis. "So far this year to date, six people have died from distracted driving crashes. Tennessee experiences thousands of distracted driving crashes each year. Our goal is to help spread awareness and prevent future tragedies on Tennessee roadways."

During each bus tour, troopers and officers inside the bus observed traffic for distracted drivers then radioed patrol vehicles to execute enforcement action. TDOT assisted by providing HELP trucks for traffic management. They also utilized the digital highway message boards to remind drivers that Tennessee is hands-free.

"There's no excuse for distracted driving," said THP Colonel Matt Perry. "During Operation Hands Free, troopers will have zero tolerance for drivers who take their eyes off the road. We're increasing visibility and enforcement because that's what it takes to get attention, and to save lives. Put the phone down or be prepared to face the consequences. If you witness unsafe behavior, dial *THP (*847) hands-free or have a passenger make the call."

According to Tennessee's Hands-Free Law (T.C.A. § 55-8-199), it is illegal for drivers to hold a cell phone or mobile device with any part of their body. Violation of this law can result in points on your driving record. Drivers can learn more at https://www.HandsFreeTN.com.