Every day, about eight Americans die and more than 1,000 are injured in distracted driving crashes. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. When behind the wheel, your attention should be 100% on the road. In 5 seconds of sending a text, driving at 55 mph you will have driven the length of a football field. That’s far enough for anything to happen.
Distracted Driving Facts
Distraction leads to driver error.
7% of ALL drivers at any given time are using their phones while driving.
Drivers that talk on the phone, handheld or hands-free, miss seeing 50% of what’s around them.
Here are a few tips to keep your attention on the road, and away from your phone:
Turn off electronic devices and put them out of reach before driving.
Be a good role model for younger drivers. Communicate the dangers and consequences of distracted driving.
If you’re a passenger, speak up. Offer to make a call for your driver or text for them. Keep their attention on the road.
Always wear your seat belt.
Note to Employers
Not all states enforce no cellphone use while driving. Employers are often found liable for employee crashes while using cell phones while driving. The NTSB recommends the complete ban of all portable electronic devices for all drivers, including hands-free devices. Employers should create a cell phone policy for all employees, company vehicles, company cellphones, and all work-related communication devices. This reduces risk and liability drastically.
If you need assistance updating your cellphone policy, STEP would be happy to help! Give us a call at (270) 753-6529 to assist in your needs today.
Sources: National Safety Council and CDC