Commit to Driving Distraction Free

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the dangers of multitasking behind the wheel. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the road, yet many drivers continue to engage in risky behaviors like texting and eating while driving. This month, join us in our commitment to staying focused while driving and encouraging others to do the same.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention away from driving. Such activities include talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to the passengers in your vehicle, adjusting the stereo settings, entertainment or navigation system – anything that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving.

“Stop what you’re doing and close your eyes for 5 seconds. That’s how long you drive without seeing the road every time you text and drive. However, distracted driving encompasses more than just texting and driving. It’s about the many things that interfere with our ability to focus and just drive. Reaching into the backseat, drinking coffee, and hands-free phone calls are all examples of distracted driving. Make an effort this April to change your routines when you get in the car. Soon, these new routines can become lifelong habits.”

Distracted Driving Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,308 lives in 2022 alone.

Texting while driving increases the risk of a crash by 23 times.

At 55 mph, sending a text message is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.

Tips to Stay Focused

  • Put your phone away – keep it out of reach or use the “Do Not Disturb” mode.
  • Set up your GPS and music before driving – avoid playing with the controls while on the road.
  • Eat before or after your trip – save meals and snacks for when you’re safely parked.
  • Use safe driving apps – some apps can block notifications or reward distraction-free driving.
  • Take breaks on long drives – fatigue can lead to mental distractions; stay alert by resting as needed.

Drive Safe with Free Resources

Safety starts with knowledge. The National Safety Council has provided FREE driver safety materials to help you stay informed and protected on the road. From safety tips to posters on driving distraction free, these resources are perfect for drivers of all ages.

Download Distraction-Free Driving materials and promote driving distraction-free.

Get Involved

  • Take the NSC’s Just Drive Pledge and commit to distraction-free driving.
  • Share personal stories or statistics on social media using hashtags like #JustDrive and #DistractedDrivingAwarenessMonth.
  • Encourage your workplace or school to promote safe driving initiative.

Let’s make our roads safer – one focused driver at a time!

Sources:

Vision Zero ND: https://visionzero.nd.gov/strategies/DistractedDriving/

National Safety Council: https://www.nsc.org/road/distracted-driving-awareness-month

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving