The US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released survey results on April 5, 2013 showing that Americans continue to use electronic devices while driving, despite laws and evidence that such distracted driving cause lack of focus and can lead to collisions, injuries and even death.
The survey revealed that, at any given daylight moment, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones, or some form of electronic devices, while driving. This number of users has held steady since 2010, despite awareness and anti-texting while driving laws. The NHTSA also found that more than 3,300 people were killed in 2011, and 387,000 were injured in collisions involving a distracted driver.[1]
US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood states, “There is no way to text and drive safely. Powering down your cell phone when you’re behind the wheel can save lives – maybe even your own.”
Click here to view a short documentary created by EndDD concerning teen distracted driving:
To prevent distracted driving, the Department of Transportation recommends drivers:
- Turn off electronic devices and put them out of reach before starting to drive;
- Be a good role model for young drivers and set a good example;
- Talk with your teens about responsible driving;
- Speak up when you are a passenger and your driver uses an electronic device while driving;
- Always wear your seat belt; the best defense against other unsafe drivers.
