Bel Air Police on the Lookout for Distracted Drivers

April is Distracted Driving Month, and the Bel Air Police Department announced Thursday that it will be especially focused this month on cracking down on drivers using handheld devices.

Officers will be working in teams to spot violators and issue citations, according to a statement from the Bel Air Police Department.

Penalties range from $70 for a first offense to $160 for third or subsequent offenses, the statement said.

If a violation contributed to a collision, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration assigns a driver three points. Drivers with a learners permit or provisional license who are cited face additional penalties including the suspension of their driving privileges for up to 90 days, police said.

The crackdown on distracted driving in Bel Air is paid for by a $2,500 grant, in conjunction with the Maryland Highway Safety Office, the statement said.

What police say you should know about the law:

• Drivers may not use handheld devices to make or receive phone calls while the vehicle is in motion.
• Drivers may not send or receive text or electronic messages while they are on the travel portion of the roadway.
• Using cell phones to contact 911 is allowed but should only occur when and where it is safe for the driver and others, police said.