April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month and a good time to regroup and take responsibility for the choices made when driving a vehicle. In 2019, distracted driving killed 3,142 people - a 10% increase from 2018. According to NHTSA research from 2017,drivers 16 to 24 years old have been observed using handheld electronic devices while driving at higher rates than older drivers since 2007.
Drive Responsibly
Follow these safety tips for a safe ride every time:
• Need to send a text? Pull over and park your car in a safe location. Only then is it safe to send or read a text.
• Designate your passenger as your "designated texter." Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
• Do not scroll through apps, including social media, while driving. Cell phone use can be habit-forming.
• Struggling to not text and drive? Put the cell phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of the vehicle until you arrive at your destination.
Take Action
• Remind your friends and family: If you're in the driver's seat, driving is the only thing you should be doing. No distractions.
• If your driver is texting or otherwise distracted, tell them to stop and focus on the road.
• Ask your friends to join you in pledging not to drive distracted. You could save a life. Share your pledge on social media to spread the word - #JustDrive