According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), spending just five seconds distracted while driving at 55 mph is equivalent to covering the entire length of a football field with your eyes closed. Engaging in activities like texting, using social media, applying makeup, or eating can divert your attention from the road and lead to fatal consequences. Safe driving requires your full focus; any non-driving activity increases your risk of crashing. To promote safe driving practices during Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April, the Airport Corridor Transportation Association (ACTA) is committed to advocating for passenger safety and driving without distractions.
Follow these Safety Tips for a Safe Ride:
- If you need to send a text, pull over and park in a safe location.
- Designate a passenger as your “designated texter” to handle calls or messages.
- Avoid scrolling through apps while driving. If you struggle with the urge to text, place your phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat until you reach your destination.
From April 7 to 14, you may notice increased law enforcement on the road as part of the national campaign Put the Phone Away or Pay. This initiative aims to remind drivers of the dangers and legal consequences, including fines, associated with texting while driving.
Take Action:
- Remind friends and family that when you’re driving, your focus should be solely on the road—no distractions.
- If your driver is distracted, encourage them to stop and concentrate on driving.
- Invite your friends to pledge against distracted driving. You could save a life! Share your commitment on social media to help spread awareness.
Take the New Distracted Driving Quiz:
Do you know the truth about distracted driving? Try to separate the myths from the facts in this interactive quiz, courtesy of the National Safety Council!
Distracted Driving is Preventable – Help Create Safer Roads for Everyone:
Hundreds of thousands of people are affected by distracted driving crashes each year. Watch this video featuring the stories of survivors and advocates, courtesy of the National Safety Council.
