Police to Crack Down on Intoxicated, Distracted Drivers on Friday

Police are planning two extra enforcement campaigns on Friday to seek out intoxicated drivers, as well as those distracted by cell phones, officials said.

The operations will take place all day Friday throughout the city, Pasadena police said in a written statement.

“Pasadena Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol,” according to the statement. “Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or ‘operating heavy machinery,’ which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana is legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.”

At the same time, officers will be out looking for drivers paying attention to cell phones instead of the road.

“Distracted driving is a serious issue, but one that can be easily solved simply by putting the phone down,” said Pasadena police Lt. Max Dahlstein. “That text, phone call, email or social media post can wait.”

In addition to using mobile devices, eating, grooming, talking passengers, and adjusting stereos are other examples of distracted driving, he said.

First offenders can expect fines of $157, officials added.

“If you have an important phone call or need to program directions, pull over to a safe parking spot,” the statement said. “Before driving, either silence your phone or put it somewhere you can’t reach.”

Funding for both programs is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.