The Fairfax County Police Department announced on April 1 several traffic safety initiatives for the month, focusing on reducing crashes and improving roadway safety as spring brings more people outdoors. The department’s Traffic Safety Division will increase enforcement and education around distracted driving, impaired driving, and speeding throughout April.
These efforts come as warmer weather typically leads to higher numbers of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians sharing the roads. The department said that safe driving choices are important to protect everyone traveling in Fairfax County.
Officers will participate in the national “U Drive, U Text, U Pay” campaign during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This initiative targets cell phone use while driving—including texting, social media use, and calls—as well as other distractions such as adjusting navigation systems or eating behind the wheel. The department said even a few seconds of distraction can prevent a driver from reacting in time to avoid a crash.
In addition to distracted driving enforcement, officers will promote the “If You Feel Different, You Drive Different” campaign against impaired driving by alcohol or drugs. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead by using rideshare services or designating a sober driver if they plan to consume substances that could impair their ability to drive safely.
The Road Shark initiative also returns this year with focused enforcement on speeding and aggressive driving from April 20 through April 26. Speeding remains a major factor in serious and fatal crashes nationwide by reducing reaction time and increasing crash severity—especially at night or during poor weather conditions.
The police department advises drivers this spring to put away phones while driving, arrange sober rides when needed, follow posted speed limits according to road conditions, watch for vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists, allow extra space between vehicles, and avoid aggressive maneuvers. By making safer choices behind the wheel, officials say motorists can help reduce crashes across Fairfax County.
