April Patrols Aim to Curb Distracted Driving in Newberg and Dundee

NEWBERG, Ore. — This April, the Newberg-Dundee Police Department is increasing patrols in Newberg and Dundee as part of Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The department joins several neighboring agencies in a coordinated effort to promote safer driving and reduce crashes caused by distractions behind the wheel.

Funded in part by a $7,000 High-Visibility Enforcement grant from the Oregon Department of Transportation, the campaign will focus on areas with heavy pedestrian traffic and construction zones — locations where the risks of distracted driving are especially high.

“Increased patrols like these have a proven impact,” said Mindy McCartt, ODOT public information officer. “Drivers are more likely to comply with the law when they know enforcement is happening. These efforts play a crucial role in educating the public on how to avoid crashes and keep the roads safer.”

According to ODOT’s distracted driving data, Oregon saw 26,264 crashes involving distracted drivers from 2017 to 2021. Those crashes resulted in 194 fatalities and more than 24,000 injuries. During that same period, more than 60,000 people were convicted of distracted driving in the state.

In Newberg, patrol locations and durations will be guided by local crash data and areas with high rates of distracted driving according to a release from NDPD. Community members can expect to see more officers on the road and reminders posted online, including updates on the department’s Facebook page.

“I think it’s very important to enforce distracted driving statutes year-round,” said Police Chief Jeff Kosmicki. “Distracted driving increases the risk of crashes, serious injuries to drivers and passengers, as well as fatalities involving pedestrians. Drivers should always be focused on the roadway to avoid these life-changing events.”

Neighboring cities are also participating in Distracted Driving Awareness Month. On April 5, the Sherwood Police Department posted on Facebook about a driver who was pulled over and cited for using a phone while driving, only to be stopped again less than an hour later for the same offense. 

The driver received a $440 ticket for operating a motor vehicle while using a mobile electronic device — a second offense. Sherwood police said they will continue focusing on distracted driving and urging the public to drive phone-free.

“Officers always have discretion on whether to issue citations or not, which is an important part of police work,” Kosmicki said. “I would expect NDPD officers would make more stops to address distracted driving. This may result in educating the public through a conversation at door side or providing a citation. Hopefully, this approach will lower the risk for the public traveling on Oregon roadways.”

Oregon has one of the strictest distracted driving laws in the nation. The state law (ORS 811.507) prohibits drivers from using any mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle. This means using a phone for directions or an app while driving is illegal unless done hands-free — even at a stoplight.

Grants like the $7,000 HVE grant help police departments enforce the law while raising awareness.

“The Newberg-Dundee Police Department’s use of their $7,000 HVE grant for 2025 is a prime example of how focused enforcement can enhance safety efforts,” McCartt said. “These efforts also align with the Safe System Approach, which focuses on creating a safer transportation network for everyone.”

As NDPD continues its patrols throughout April, the department’s message is clear: staying alert and driving distraction-free makes the community safer.