Overview
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
Distracted driving is any activity that takes the driver’s attention away from the task of safe driving. Staying focused on the road is key to driving safely. Using a cell phone while driving, like all other forms of distracted driving, is a risky driving behavior that poses a danger not only to vehicle occupants but pedestrians and bicyclists.
Texting and cell phone use while driving has become the most prevalent type of distracted driving.
Texting while driving is illegal in 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Handheld phone use is prohibited while driving in 30 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Safety Tips for Drivers
- If you are expecting a text message or need to send one that can’t wait, pull over and park your car in a safe location before using your device.
- Designate your passenger as your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
- Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
- Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, or put your cell phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.