Don’t Drive Distracted. Eyes Forward

We’ve all seen it: a car drifting slightly out of its lane, or someone sitting at a green light for a few seconds too long. Usually, when you peek over, you see the same thing—a glow from a smartphone.

While it might feel like a "quick check," distracted driving is any activity that diverts your attention from the road. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month and to keep our communities safe, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is championing a lifesaving message: Don’t Drive Distracted. Eyes Forward.

The Reality of the Distraction

Driving requires your full cognitive, visual, and manual attention. When you use a cellphone behind the wheel, you aren't just risking your own safety; you are posing a direct threat to your passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists.

Today, texting and cellphone use have become the most prevalent forms of distracted driving. Because of this, the law is catching up:

• Texting while driving is illegal in 49 states, D.C., and most U.S. territories.

• Handheld phone use is prohibited in 30 states and D.C.

• Novice drivers face even stricter bans, with cellphone use prohibited for beginners in 36 states.

How to Stay Focused: Tips for Drivers

The goal is simple: Stay focused on the road. If you find the vibration of a notification too tempting to ignore, try these strategies:

• The "Designated Texter": If you have a passenger, hand them your phone. Let them handle the GPS, the playlist, or the "running late" texts.

• Out of Sight, Out of Mind: If you’re driving solo, put your phone in the glove box, the back seat, or even the trunk. If you can’t reach it, you won’t use it.

• Tech to the Rescue: Most modern smartphones have a "Do Not Disturb While Driving" feature that mutes incoming alerts and sends automated replies. Activate it before you shift into gear.

• Park to Post: Social media scrolling and messaging have no place on the highway. If a message is truly urgent, pull over to a safe parking location before you touch your device.

Passengers: You Have a Voice

You aren't just a rider; you’re a safety advocate. If you are in a car and the driver starts texting:

1. Speak up. Politely tell them to stop and keep their eyes on the road.

2. Offer help. Proactively ask, "Hey, do you want me to send that text for you?"

   
   

Lead by Example

We often see others texting at red lights and think it's "normal" or acceptable. It’s not. By putting your phone away, you set a standard for your family, your friends, and especially young drivers who are watching your every move.

Bottom Line: No text, post, or email is worth a life.

For more resources and statistics on how to stay safe, visit the NHTSA Distracted Driving page.