At least eight people a day are killed in distracted driving crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving killed 3,522 people in 2021. Overall, eight percent of fatal crashes, 14 percent of injury crashes, and 13 percent of all police-reported motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2020 were affected by distractions. Consider using the opportunity of April being Distracted Driving Awareness Month to assess your own behavior and make responsible choices when on the road.

When driving distracted, you rob yourself of precious seconds that may be needed to avoid a close call, or a costly or deadly accident.  Unfortunately, distracted driving has become a deadly epidemic on our roads. The use of mobile phones and other electronic devices while driving has emerged as one of the leading causes of distracted driving-related crashes. Even if you are complying with laws banning the use of hand-held devices, the hands-free use of a mobile device to talk is still a cause of distraction. In addition, there are many other distractions that can be equally dangerous including eating, drinking, applying makeup, adjusting the radio, or using GPS. 

Drive responsibly

Think of it this way. If something requires your hands, your eyes, or your attention while you’re driving...it’s a distraction. Distracted driving isn’t just risky for you, it can be deadly for every nearby driver, pedestrian, cyclist, and worker. If you’re driving, it's the only thing you should be doing. No distractions. Here are tips for driving responsibly.

• Don't text while driving. If a text can't wait, pull over and park.
• If you have a passenger, designate them as the person to respond to calls or messages.
• Don't use apps while driving. Pull over if you need to access an app.
• Having a hard time with self-control in accessing your phone? Put it in the backseat or trunk.
• Even if hands-free, avoid making or taking unnecessary calls. Wait until you reach your destination or pull over and park.
• Don't eat, drink, or undertake other activities that distract you from the road.

Be an advocate for safe driving

• Follow and model the above safe driving behaviors. 
• If you are a passenger and the driver is doing something that's a distraction, tell them to stop and focus on the road.
• Remind friends and family not to drive distracted.