SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Highway Patrol has implemented a yearlong Adult Distracted Drivers grant designed to keep California roads safe through education and enforcement.

CHP officers throughout the state will host in-person presentations and use Web-based or virtual platforms to conduct distracted driving traffic safety presentations.

In addition, the CHP will conduct several distracted driving enforcement operations through September 30, 2021.

“Distracted driving continues to be a serious issue on our roadway, and it is entirely avoidable,” CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said. “With the support of this grant, we can implement lifesaving efforts throughout California that will raise awareness and hopefully change dangerous behavior behind the wheel.”

Multitasking behind the wheel places extra demands on the driver, which can have tragic consequences. On average, there are more than 20,000 drivers in California involved in a crash every year where inattention is a factor.

“These statistics are likely much higher and are often underreported to law enforcement since motorists do not always admit to driving distracted,” Commissioner Stanley added.