Distracted Driving Awareness

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a crucial time to reflect on the importance of attentive driving. Distracted driving remains a significant threat on our roads, claiming 3,275 lives in 2023 alone, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).​

The Alarming Reality of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving encompasses any activity that diverts attention from the primary task of driving. This includes texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or using navigation systems. Texting is particularly dangerous, as it involves visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. Taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.

Parents: Lead by Example

Young drivers are especially susceptible to distractions. As a parent, your driving habits set a powerful example. By consistently practicing attentive driving, you instill safe behaviors in your teens. Discuss the dangers of distracted driving with your young drivers and emphasize the importance of staying focused behind the wheel.​

Tips for Staying Focused

  • Silence Your Phone: Before driving, silence your phone or place it out of reach to avoid temptation.​

  • Designate a Texter: If you're expecting important messages, have a passenger handle them.​

  • Pull Over Safely: If you must make a call or send a text, find a safe location to stop your vehicle first.​

  • Use Technology Wisely: Utilize apps or settings that limit phone functionality while driving.​

Community Responsibility

If you're a passenger and notice the driver is distracted, speak up. Encourage friends and family to commit to distraction-free driving. Sharing the pledge not to drive distracted can amplify awareness and save lives.​

Remember, when you're behind the wheel, your primary responsibility is to drive. Let's work together to make our roads safer for everyone.​

For more information and resources, visit NHTSA's Distracted Driving Awareness Month page.

POSTTracey Carlsondistracted driving risks, SB, safe driving, safe communities, HPM