FILE - Republican gubernatorial candidate Kelly Ayotte, who faces Democrat Joyce Craig in the November 2024 election, smiles during a visit to a local concrete coating business, Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

CONCORD – New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte hosted a press conference with members of state and local law enforcement and traffic safety advocates to kick off Distracted Driving Awareness Month, which begins April 1, and call attention to the dangers of distracted driving.

The governor and the Office of Highway Safety announced increased patrols and enforcement measures for the month of April to discourage distracted driving. To raise public awareness, AAA Northeast announced it will run advertisements on television and social media.

“We have seen far too many crashes on our roads due to distracted driving — these are completely preventable. This month, we are stepping up enforcement to discourage drivers from using their cell phones and other distractions while on the roads,” said Governor Ayotte. “I thank the Office of Highway Safety and AAA for their efforts to call attention to the dangers of distracted driving and all of our law enforcement who are helping to keep our roadways safe. My message to all Granite Staters is this: put your phone down, pay attention, and drive safe.”

Last week, the governor announced a new Highway Safety Task Force to address accidents caused by distracted driving, speeding, and wrong-way driving incidents.