Prineville police to target distracted drivers

The Prineville Police Department will be conducting its second Pedestrian Safety Operation on Thursday, August 30, at different locations in the downtown area, with a special focus on distracted drivers.

The operation will be conducted between the hours of 10:00 am to 1:00pm. The Prineville Police Department, in order to ensure pedestrian safety, will be looking specifically for individuals who are driving while unlawfully using cell phones, a violation of the mobile communication device statute, ORS.811.507.

The primary focus of this program is to raise awareness of distracted drivers and to reduce the number of vehicle crashes involving pedestrians and cell phone users within the City of Prineville.

Warning signs will be posted prior to entering the Pedestrian Safety Operation. A decoy will be used and is a member of the Prineville Police Department. The decoy will be in plain clothes. Drivers should use caution as they enter the Pedestrian Safety Zone.

Once stopped for a pedestrian in a crosswalk, divers should remain stopped until the pedestrian clears their lane and adjacent lane. (ORS.811.028)

Failure to stop and remain stopped for a pedestrian (ORS.811.028) is a class B violation with a fine of $260.00. Operating a Motor Vehicle While Using a Mobile Communication Device (ORS.811.507) is a Class D violation with a minimum base fine of $142.00.