During two enforcement operations, the California Highway Patrol issued more than 600 citations to distracted drivers along Highway 99 between Bakersfield and Modesto.

Between Aug. 25 and Aug. 29, CHP held “Operation No Cell Phone Around Schools” in an effort to save lives and eliminate distracted driving around school zones.

CHP officers issued 172 citations for motorists who were talking on their cell phone, 19 citations for motorists texting while driving, and 32 citations for “other distracted driving” during the five-day operation, according to the CHP.

Over Labor Day weekend, CHP officers cited many more distracted drivers during “Operation Cell Free Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.”

During the weekend operation, officers issued 305 citations for motorists who were talking on their cell phone, seven citations for drivers under the age of 18 talking on their cell phone, 39 citations for drivers who were texting, and 54 citations for “other distracted driving.”

Officers also made two DUI arrests during distracted driving enforcement stops.

Funding for this national program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.