Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Distracted Driving Awareness Month takes place during the month of April. It is represented by the Road awareness ribbon, which is available on this site. Personalized Cause developed the Road pin because, most importantly, distracted driving can cause accidents that are avoidable.

Distracted driving has become a deadly epidemic on our roads. For example, cell phone use — specifically, texting, talking, and social media use — has become the most common distraction. In addition, other risky actions include adjusting the radio or GPS, applying makeup, eating and drinking. Further, by driving distracted, you’re robbing yourself of seconds that you may need to avoid a close call or deadly crash.

Drive Responsibly

In 2021, distracted driving killed 3,522 people. April, which is national Distracted Driving Awareness Month, is a good time to regroup and take responsibility for the choices we make when we’re on the road. Follow these safety tips for a safe ride:

• Need to send a text? Pull over and park your car in a safe location.
• Designate your passenger as your “designated texter” to respond to calls or messages.
• Do not scroll through apps while driving. Struggling not to text and drive? Put the cell phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of the vehicle until you arrive at your destination.

The Consequences

During a portion of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, from April 3 through 10, you may see increased law enforcement on the roadways as part of the national paid media campaign U Drive. U Text. U Pay. This campaign reminds drivers of the deadly dangers and the legal consequences, including fines, of texting behind the wheel.

Take Action Against Distracted Driving

• Remind your friends and family: If you’re in the driver’s seat, it’s the only thing you should be doing. No distractions.
• If your driver is texting or otherwise distracted, tell them to stop and focus on the road.
• Ask your friends to join you in pledging not to drive distracted. You could save a life. In addition, share your pledge on social media to spread the word — #JustDrive.

Other Types of Distracted Driving

Drunk Driving

Every day, about 37 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes — that’s one person every 39 minutes. In 2021, 13,384 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths — a 14% increase from 2020. These deaths were all preventable.

Drug-Impaired Driving

You can’t drive safely if you’re impaired. That’s why it’s illegal everywhere in America to drive under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, opioids, methamphetamines, or any potentially impairing drug. This includes those prescribed or over the counter. Driving while impaired by any substance, legal or illegal, puts you and others in harm’s way. Learn the latest research on drug-impaired driving, misconceptions about marijuana use, and what you can do to make smarter choices to drive safely.

Speeding

Speeding endangers everyone on the road: In 2021, speeding killed 12,330 people. We all know the frustrations of modern life and juggling a busy schedule, but speed limits are put in place to protect all road users. Learn about the dangers of speeding and why faster doesn’t mean safer.

Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving kills, but it is preventable. Learn about three factors commonly associated with drowsy-driving crashes and pick up some helpful tips to avoid falling asleep at the wheel. In this section, you’ll also find several resources and learn what NHTSA is doing to help eliminate this risky behavior.