You can't drive a few miles down the road without seeing it - someone using an electronic device while behind the wheel. Although statistics show how dangerous distracted driving is, motorist still feel a strong pull to use their devices and put themselves, passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists and property at risk.

Agencies across the country are making a strong push this month to both educate and beef up patrols to help stop this dangerous habit. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission has announced extra patrols to focus on distracted driving from Monday, April 2 through April 14.

distracted

The commission notes that drivers are three times more likely to crash when talking on the phone and 23 times more likely to crash when entering information into their phones. In Washington State, it is illegal to hold cell phones or watch videos while driving, while stopped in traffic or at a stop light. Oregon has a similar law.

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BROADWAY BRIDGE 9 a.m.; The bridge will close after the last streetcar crossing of the day at 11 p.m. Monday, April 2 and reopen by 5 a.m. on Tuesday, April 3. During the closure a survey of drawbridge parts will be performed and a shim installed on one of the tracks that support the Rall wheels that help open the drawbridge.

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ALOHA 7:38 a.m.; Injury crash on Southwest Tualatin Valley Highway just east of 170th Avenue.



Update 7:48 a.m.; Crash also includes a fluid spill. Will take time to clear. Avoid the area if possible.

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Washington Park changes:

Starting Monday, Washington Park guests will experience several new visitor enhancements. The popular and free of charge Explore Washington Park shuttle returns for the 2018 season. The shuttle loops throughout the 410-acre park, linking the Washington Park TriMet MAX station to the rest of the park. The shuttle runs every 15 minutes on weekends in April and October from 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., and daily May thru September 9:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

There are also improvements for those who drive to the park. The Portland Water Bureau is transitioning from site preparation to construction of the new reservoir. Changes in the construction schedule include the reopening Monday of the entrance at Southwest Park Place. Also, Sherwood Boulevard, which links the gardens to the Park Place entrance and the Children's Playground reopens on Monday.

Check back throughout the morning for the latest commuting updates and follow us on Twitter: @trafficportland