LANSING — Michigan police are stepping up distracted driving enforcement — but not in the way safety experts recommend.
Operation Ghost Rider launches this week, with officers riding in unmarked vehicles to spot distracted drivers and alert nearby marked units to make the stops.
Research suggests this approach may be less effective than visible squad cars. A study from the National Highway Safety Administration found that marked patrol vehicles deter traffic violations and property crimes, while unmarked vehicles show no significant impact.
According to the College of Policing, instead of relying on undercover tactics, Michigan should focus on hiring more officers and putting more marked patrols on the road — a strategy proven to change behavior and build public trust, according to the College of Policing.
Under Michigan’s hands-free law, drivers caught holding a phone behind the wheel face a $100 fine or 16 hours of community service for a first offense, with penalties increasing for repeat violations.
Operation Ghost Rider is funded by the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning.