CONCORD , N.H. (MyKeeneNow) As distracted driving incidents continue to be a concern on New Hampshire’s roads, state officials are ramping up efforts to curb the dangerous habit.

Governor Kelly Ayotte, alongside the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety and law enforcement officials, announced a series of new initiatives aimed at reducing crashes caused by driver inattention.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Ayotte stressed the importance of addressing the issue head-on. “We have seen far too many crashes on our roads due to distracted driving — these are completely preventable,” she said. “This month, we are stepping up enforcement to discourage drivers from using their cell phones and other distractions while on the roads.”

The heightened focus comes as the state observes National Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April. As part of the effort, law enforcement agencies across New Hampshire will increase patrols to identify and ticket drivers who are not paying attention behind the wheel. The campaign, backed by federal funding from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, will also include public awareness initiatives, including a new public service announcement (PSA) airing on television and social media.

According to state data, distraction-related crashes have claimed 22 lives in the past three years. Officials hope the renewed focus on enforcement, combined with public outreach, will help change driver behavior.

“A moment of distraction can lead to a lifetime of regret,” said New Hampshire State Police Lt. Christopher Storm. “We are asking for everyone’s help: pledge to focus on the road and put phones down behind the wheel.”

New Hampshire’s hands-free law prohibits the use of cell phones while driving, with fines for violators. Officials are urging residents to consider additional safety measures, such as enabling “do not disturb” modes on their phones and having conversations with family members about the dangers of distracted driving.

This latest push comes just days after Governor Ayotte announced the formation of a Highway Safety Task Force, which will address various roadway hazards, including distraction behind the wheel.