#JustDrive

Distracted Driving Affects Everyone

This Easter children will be out hunting easter eggs all over the neighborhood and around parks. As we know children can be unpredictable, so put the phone down – driving is no place to be distracted.  

3,142 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2020, according to the latest research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Distracted driving involves any activity that can cause a driver to take their eyes, hands or mind off of the road, endangering themselves and others. Sending a text message, talking on a cell phone, using a navigation system and eating while driving are a few examples.

A large majority of respondents surveyed for the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s annual Traffic Safety Culture Index perceived reading (93%) and typing (92%) a text/email as very or extremely dangerous. The concern for these distracted driving behaviors is right up there with drowsy and drunk or impaired driving.

According to NHTSA, 32,483 people died in distraction-affected crashes over the ten-year period from 2011 to 2020. In 2020, there were 3,142 deaths linked to driver distraction or 8% of all motor-vehicle crash fatalities. This is a slight increase in fatalities compared to 2019.

Put the phones away when  behind the wheel. If you absolutely need to text, pull over and do not drive while doing so. If you are the driver, follow these steps for a safe driving experience from NHTSA:

  • If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location. Once you are safely off the road and parked, it is safe to text.
  • Ask your passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
  • Enter all device navigation coordinates before putting your car into drive. If you need to alter your trip, ask a passenger to make adjustments or pull over to a safe location and put your car in park first.
  • Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
  • Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, or put your phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.
By the way, law enforcement are out and about looking for distracted drivers. Don’t be one of them because when you are distracted you affect others with speeding and red light running as well. Let’s stay safe this Easter and every day. 
 
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