April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month
It's a time to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from driving, including texting, eating, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, distracted driving was a factor in 9% of all fatal crashes in the United States, resulting in the deaths of 3,142 people. Additionally, there were an estimated 424,000 people injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2019. This is a sobering reminder that distracted driving is a serious problem that affects us all.
Consequences of Distracted Driving
The consequences of distracted driving can be devastating. In addition to the loss of life, it can also result in serious injuries, property damage, and legal consequences. Many states have implemented laws to prevent distracted driving, such as bans on texting while driving and hands-free phone use, but it is still up to individual drivers to make the right choices. This means putting down the phone, avoiding multitasking, and staying focused on the road.
How Can You Avoid Distractions When Driving in Vancouver, WA?
There are several steps you can take to avoid distracted driving. First, put your phone away while driving. If you need to make a call or send a text, pull over to a safe location. Second, avoid eating, drinking, or grooming while driving. These activities can take your eyes and attention off the road, even if it's just for a few seconds. Finally, make sure your vehicle is set up for safe driving. Adjust your mirrors, set your GPS, and adjust your music or radio before you start driving.
Distracted driving is preventable, and it's up to all of us to take action. This April, let's commit to being safer drivers by avoiding distractions and staying focused on the road. By doing so, we can help reduce the number of crashes and fatalities on our roads and ensure that everyone arrives at their destination safely. Remember, when you're behind the wheel, your only focus should be on driving safely.