Huntsville Police urges drivers to ‘Put the Phone Away or Pay’ during Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Published on April 1, 2025

Distracted driving is a major safety concern, and the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) is doubling down on its efforts to keep the community safe, reminding drivers that even a moment’s distraction behind the wheel can have life-altering consequences.

As part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) 2025 Distracted Driving Awareness Campaign, “Put the Phone Away or Pay,” HPD urges drivers to stay focused and avoid distractions behind the wheel. With April marking National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, HPD reminds residents that no message or phone call is worth risking a life.

“Driving requires your full attention, and taking your eyes off the road for just a second can have serious consequences,” Police Chief Kirk Giles said. “We encourage everyone to follow the law and keep their focus where it belongs – on the road ahead.”

In line with this message, the City’s Hands-Free Ordinance, which took effect Jan. 1, 2024, upgraded violations from a secondary to a primary offense, allowing officers to stop a driver when they see a violation and issue a citation. The ordinance aims to reduce the risk of accidents caused by distracted driving and encourages drivers to focus on the road.

Throughout April, HPD will share helpful tips and information to help drivers avoid distractions and stay safe the roadways. For updates, follow HPD on Facebook and Twitter.