Troopers cracking down on distracted driving this week

— Seeing more troopers than normal on the highway? Ohio is working with five other states to crack down on distracted driving.

Starting this past Sunday, the Ohio State Highway Patrol began a high-visibility enforcement along with troopers from Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The initiative will last until Saturday.

AAA offers the following tips to avoid distractions while driving:

• Put aside electronic distractions and never use text messaging, email, video games or internet functions, including those built into the vehicle, while driving. 
• Pre-program your GPS and adjust seats, mirrors, climate controls and sound systems before driving. 
• Properly secure children and pets. Store loose possessions and other items that could roll around in the car. 
• Snack smart by avoiding messy foods that can be difficult to manage.