Huntsville drivers already are subject to a ticket for disregarding the city’s hands-free ordinance, but local police are doubling down on efforts to keep the community’s roads safe.

With distracted driving a major safety concern, the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) is 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.”

The NHTSA issued the following tips to avoid distracted driving:

Need to send a text? Pull over and park your car in a safe location.
Designate your passenger as your “designated texter” to respond to calls or messages.
Do not scroll through apps while driving. Struggling not to text and drive? Put the cell phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of the vehicle until you arrive at your destination.

Huntsville’s Hands-Free Ordinance took effect Jan. 1, 2024, upgrading violations from a secondary to a primary offense and 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 on the roadways. For updates, follow HPD on Facebook and Twitter.