By the Office of Public Affairs
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is mobilizing police nationwide to look out for drivers texting or using their phone behind the wheel. The ‘U Drive. U Text. U Pay.’ campaign is now in its fifth year.
In 2016, NHTSA data shows that at least 3,450 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. To prevent tragedies due to distracted driving, motorists are urged to:
• Turn off electronic devices and put them out of reach before starting to drive.
• Be good role models for young drivers and set a good example.
• Speak up when you are a passenger and your driver uses an electronic device while driving. Offer to make the call for the driver.
• Always wear your seat belt – the best defense against unsafe drivers.
• All pedestrians and bicyclists should focus on their surroundings and not on their electronic devices.