Rochester, MN  (KROC AM News) - Extra law enforcement personnel will be on the lookout for distracted drivers on Minnesota roads over the next few weeks.

The annual crackdown began Monday and will run through April 22nd.

Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson took part in a kickoff event at the Government Center Monday morning. He told news reporters there is a need to change the mindset of motorists who feel social planning is more important than safety on the road while driving.

In recent years, the distracted driving enforcement campaign has resulted in hundreds of tickets for those caught texting while driving.

Torgerson points out the ban on reading and sending texts and emails and accessing the internet while driving also applies to a vehicle that is at a stoplight or stop sign. He also notes distracted drivers who are involved in a serious injury or deadly wreck can face the same felony charges as a DUI motorist.

Here's a video of local high school students talking about distracted driving.

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