Law Enforcement Patrols To Increase This Month As Authorities Look For Distracted Drivers On Maine Roadways

The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety says over 50 people lost their lives in crashes along Maine roadways that involved distracted drivers over the course of the last 4 years.

They are hoping to reduce that number going forward, with an initiative that kicks off next week, just in time for Distracted Drivers Awareness month.

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Authorities will be out in full force for the next few weeks, looking for people who aren't paying attention behind the wheel.

Read More: Maine Police Say a Stationary Vehicle Caused A Fatal I-95 Crash

"From April 9th through 13th, multiple law enforcement agencies across the state
in partnership with the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, will be conducting
additional patrols looking for drivers texting and using their phones while driving."

What happens if you get busted for distracted driving in the state of Maine?

You could have to pay a hefty fine.

But what happens if you don't get busted, but instead get into an accident?

Those penalties could haunt you for a lifetime.

Read More: Maine Snowstorm Causes Tragic Accident On Interstate 95

Director of the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, Lauren Stewart, says she hopes the national "Put the Phone Away or Pay" campaign, in which Maine law enforcement officers will be participating, will inspire drivers to put down the devices, and pay attention to the road.

“The driver’s focus shouldn’t be on their phone, it should be on the road. Nothing on your phone is worth the risk to yourself and to other people on the road. It’s dangerous.”

According to the National Safety Council, instances of distracted driving have gone up 68% year-over-year, with motor vehicle fatalities as a result of distracted driving  increased 8% in 2025 alone.

They're now reporting that roughly 9 people in the U.S. die daily in crashes involving distracted drivers.

"Based on preliminary reports, approximately 3,240 to 3,275 people are projected to have been killed in distracted driving crashes in the U.S. in 2025."

Safety officials say the best way drivers can reduce the risk of distracted driving fatalities on Maine roadways is for them to be aware of their surroundings, and always keep their eyes and full attention on the road.