Marion County, OR – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office issued a strong reminder Monday urging drivers to put down their phones and stay focused on the road. The department’s latest public safety message, shared on social media, warns that distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of serious and fatal crashes across Oregon.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, even a few seconds of looking away from the road can have deadly consequences. The agency’s post reads, “Distracted driving kills. Put the phone away. Don’t text or drive.” The campaign is part of a broader statewide effort to curb distracted driving incidents, which have risen in recent years as smartphone use continues to increase.
Oregon law prohibits drivers from holding or using a mobile device while operating a vehicle. Violations can result in fines and, for repeat offenders, license suspensions. Authorities emphasize that the real cost, however, is the loss of life that often accompanies distracted driving crashes.
The Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to speak up if they see friends or family members texting while driving and to use hands-free options only when absolutely necessary.
Officials hope the message resonates ahead of the busy holiday travel season, when road traffic typically increases. “Every text can wait,” the Sheriff’s Office said in its post. “Your safety and the safety of others depend on it.”
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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