Chelsea Police to Target Distracted Driving in April Enforcement Campaign

Chelsea Police Chief Kevin Kazyak announced at the March 23, 2026, Chelsea City Council meeting that his department will participate in a statewide effort to crack down on distracted driving throughout April.

Kazyak said the initiative coincides with a statewide campaign led by the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning.

“April has been designated distracted driving month by the Office of Highway Safety Planning,” Kazyak told the council.

He highlighted the scope of the issue across Michigan, noting, “in 2024 there were 14,439 crashes in the state…resulting in 1971 injuries and 65 fatalities. In the State of Michigan, Washtenaw County, is fifth highest in the number of distracted driving cases or crashes.”

Kazyak also referenced a relatively new state law aimed at curbing distracted driving.

“In 2023 Governor Whitmer signed into law a bill making it illegal to manually use a cell phone or other mobile electronics while operating a vehicle on Michigan roads,” he said. “Under the law, driver cannot hold or support a phone or other device or any part with any part of their hands, arms, or shoulders.”

As part of the April campaign, Chelsea officers will join other agencies across the state in increased enforcement.

“Chelsea Police Department, along with local county and state police agencies throughout the state of Michigan, will be out in force targeting distracted drivers for the month of April,” Kazyak said. “Those drivers using cell phones, reading a book, grooming themselves, shaving, makeup, that sort of thing, or have pets on their laps, can be cited.”

Alluding to Chelsea’s high number of 198 traffic stops in his February report, Kazyak emphasized the department’s participation in the effort, stating, “We are going to be participating in the distracted driving month of April.”