For the past decade, distracted driving has taken U.S. roadways by storm, endangering not only the distracted drivers, but their passengers, pedestrians and others on the road — including bicyclists.
The past year has brought a lot of distractions and changes in our life, but when we’re behind the wheel we must be focused on one task: safe driving. Anytime you divert your attention from driving, you’re distracted. This includes texting, talking, using your phone, adjusting the radio, setting your navigation, applying makeup, eating or drinking.
Texting, which includes messaging, is considered the most dangerous type of distracted driving because it combines visual, manual and cognitive distraction.
Distracted Driving Is Deadly
3,142 LIVES LOST IN CRASHES INVOLVING DISTRACTED DRIVERS IN 2019 — THAT’S 3,142 TOO MANY
9% FATAL CRASHES IN 2019 THAT INVOLVED DISTRACTED DRIVERS
26,000+ APPROXIMATE NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO DIED IN CRASHES INVOLVING DISTRACTED DRIVERS FROM 2012-2019
Since 2007, drivers 16 to 24 years old have been distracted by devices at higher rates than other drivers, but we’re all at risk for distracted driving crashes. Consider these tips for safe driving:
- If you must send or receive a text, pull over to a safe location and park your car first.
- If you have passengers, appoint a “designated texter” to handle all your texting.
- If you can’t resist the temptation to look at your phone, keep it in the trunk.
The Lesure Agency works hard to empower families and communities.
