MADISON COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT

Subject: Put the Phone Away or Pay Campaign 2026 Date: 03/26/2026 Location: Madison County FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDATE: March 26, 2026CONTACT: Sheriff Todd Volk Put the Phone Away or Pay Campaign Reminds Drivers: Stay Focused April 9–13 and Every Day Madison, Nebraska — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging motorists to stay focused on the road as part of the national “Put the Phone Away or Pay” enforcement campaign. This high-visibility effort, aligned with the busy Easter holiday travel season, will run from April 9 through April 13, 2026. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with NHTSA to educate drivers on the dangers and consequences of distracted driving. According to NHTSA, distracted driving claimed 3,275 lives in 2023, making it a significant and preventable public safety concern. “Too often, we see the devastating results of distracted driving,” said Sheriff Todd Volk. “A single decision to look at your phone can have life-changing consequences. Our goal is to prevent those tragedies before they happen.” During the enforcement period, Madison County deputies will be out in full force, focusing on distracted driving violations and other unsafe behaviors. Deputies will also continue enforcing Nebraska’s seat belt laws and encouraging all motorists to make safe, responsible choices behind the wheel. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office reminds all drivers: Put the phone away while driving Stay focused on the road Always wear your seat belt Make safety a priority for yourself and others For more information on the Put the Phone Away or Pay campaign, visit:https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving ### Put the phone away Approve and send Last updated 03/26/2026 at 08:35 by Todd Volk 907 Sheriff Todd Volk