STAY SAFE, STAY ALIVE
Drive Without Distractions!

In 2023, distracted driving killed 3,275 people. April, which is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, is a good time to regroup and take responsibility for the choices we make when we’re on the road. 

Distracted driving can take many forms: adjusting the radio or GPS, applying makeup, eating, and drinking. However, cell phone use, particularly texting, talking, and social media, is the most common distraction. Texting is especially dangerous because it involves visual, manual, and cognitive distractions.

JUST DRIVE.

 Follow these safety tips for a safe ride: 

• If you need to text, pull over to a safe location and park your car before reading or sending a message.
• Distracted driving includes texting, scrolling through social media, or messaging while driving.
• Appoint a passenger as the “designated texter” to respond to calls or messages.
• Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or put your phone in the trunk to avoid temptation.
• Speak up if you see someone texting and driving and ask them to put their phone away.

During Distracted Driving Awareness Month, you may notice increased law enforcement on the roads as part of the national campaign “Put the Phone Away or Pay.” This campaign highlights the deadly dangers and legal consequences, including fines, of texting while driving.

Your state legislature and governor make the laws regarding distracted driving. Many states now have laws against texting, talking on a cell phone, and other distractions while driving. You can visit the Governors Highway Safety Association to learn about the laws in your state.

• Remind your friends and family that driving is the only task they should focus on when behind the wheel. No distractions.
• If your driver is texting or otherwise distracted, ask them to stop and focus on the road.
• Encourage your friends to pledge not to drive distracted. You could save a life. Share your pledge on social media with the hashtag #JustDrive.

• Enable the Driving Focus on your phone.
• Model responsible driving habits for your children.
• Discuss distracted driving with your family.

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration