A warning to motorists from Lyons Town Marshal Chandler Willard is simple: Put the phone down. It can wait.

Willard issued two citations for cell phone use while driving within the first hour of his shift Friday, prompting a reminder from the Lyons Police Department about the dangers of distracted driving.

“Distracted driving continues to be a serious concern, and it's something we want to address before it results in a preventable tragedy,” Willard said.

According to Indiana traffic crash statistics cited by Willard, distracted driving was reported as a factor in approximately 5.3% of all traffic crashes statewide in 2024. In 2023, 47 fatal crashes involved distracted driving.

Willard noted those figures likely underestimate the problem because driver distraction is not always easily identified following a crash.

He also emphasized how quickly a moment of inattention can become dangerous.

At 55 mph, a vehicle travels more than 400 feet in just five seconds — longer than a football field.

Under Indiana Code 9-21-8-59, motorists are prohibited from holding or using a cell phone while operating a moving vehicle, except through hands-free technology or when contacting 911 to report an emergency.

Willard said the dangers are particularly concerning on local roads, where motorists share the roadway with pedestrians, children, bicyclists, farm equipment and other vehicles.

“It only takes a moment of inattention to cause a crash that could change someone's life forever,” he said.

The department is urging motorists to avoid texting, scrolling through social media or otherwise handling their phones while driving.

“We understand that cell phones have become a part of everyday life, but no text message, phone call, or social media notification is worth risking your life or someone else's,” Willard said. “Please put the phone down, pay attention to the road, and make it home safely.”