Following two years of high traffic fatalities, Washington, D.C., is using technology to combat distracted driving and make streets safer.
The D.C. Highway Safety Office reported more than 50 deadly crashes in both 2023 and 2024.
In response, officials launched a pilot program last year using smart signs equipped with infrared technology to detect cellphone use behind the wheel. The signs flash a warning: “Put it down.”
“Based on our studies, we found that about one in three drivers was using their cell phone when they were behind the wheel,” said Rick Birt, deputy mayor for the Highway Safety Office, in a statement.
The signs were deployed in crash-prone corridors, including a recent 57-day test along New York Avenue. More than 30,000 distracted drivers were detected — but by combining enforcement and digital signage, officials saw a 45% drop in daily violations.
Offenders caught by police face a $100 fine. While the detectors themselves don’t issue tickets, speed cameras remain active in the area. The pilot has now expanded to Rhode Island Avenue NE.
With just five traffic deaths reported so far in 2025, D.C. officials are cautiously optimistic that tech-driven enforcement is making a difference.
Source: WUSA9.com, Newsbreak.com
