A recent distracted driving enforcement effort by Visalia police led to 18 drivers being cited for using cellphones behind the wheel, the Visalia Police Department said in a statement Thursday.

Visalia police also cited eight drivers in another enforcement on April 17.

Police urged motorists to stay focused and reminded the public that “it can wait,” emphasizing that putting phones down helps prevent crashes and saves lives.

The operation was funded through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety. Officers also encouraged drivers to “drive safe, stay alert, arrive alive.”

Other local departments have also been cracking down on distracted driving.

On April 7, the Fresno Police Department cited 114 drivers during a similar enforcement effort.

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