Be sure to let his mom know that you just had to answer that call.
Distracted Driving is Not an Accident, it is a Choice!
The Cost of Distraction is a Heartbreaking Reality
Jacy’s life changed forever on what seemed like an ordinary day. While driving southbound, her family was struck head-on by a car driven by an 18-year-old distracted by his phone.
Tragically, both of Jacy’s parents were killed, leaving her with unimaginable physical and emotional scars, while the distracted driver walked away with minor injuries. This heartbreaking incident is not an isolated case; distracted driving claims over 9 lives and injures more than 1,153 people daily in the U.S. Each statistic represents a life forever altered or cut short.
The Harsh Truth
While cell phones have made life easier, they also contribute to a rising death toll. Many states have enacted laws against texting while driving, but loopholes persist, allowing this dangerous behavior to continue. States with strict anti-texting laws report lower rates of distracted driving incidents. However, even “hands-free” devices can increase distraction, as research shows they do not eliminate the risks associated with divided attention.
Changing Our Mindset
Why is distracted driving tolerated? It’s partly due to our attachment to our devices and the perception of distracted drivers. Unlike those driving under the influence, distracted drivers aren’t always seen as a significant threat, despite both posing serious risks. A change in mindset is essential; there is no safe way to use a device or engage in any distraction while driving.
Types of Distractions
Distracted driving encompasses more than just cell phones; any activity that diverts your attention from the road can be dangerous. Common distractions include:
- Visual: Taking your eyes off the road (e.g., looking at a navigation screen).
- Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel (e.g., reaching for items).
- Cognitive: Taking your mind off driving (e.g., deep conversations, daydreaming).
Common Non-Phone Distractions
- Eating & Drinking: Managing food and drinks while driving.
- Passengers: Engaging in conversation with companions in the car.
- Controls: Adjusting the radio, climate, or navigation.
- External Focus: “Rubbernecking” at accidents or other sights.
- Internal Focus: Daydreaming, stress, or fatigue.
Why It's Dangerous
- Impaired Performance: Distractions slow reaction time and impair judgment, making it challenging to spot hazards.
- Cognitive Tunnel Vision: Even hands-free calls can divert your attention, reducing awareness of your surroundings.
- Increased Risk: Distractions contribute to a significant percentage of crashes, including fatal ones, highlighting a widespread safety issue.
Taking Action: How You Can Help
- Put Your Phone Away: Turn it off and stow it in the glove box while driving. If you need to make a call or send a text, find a safe place to pull over.
- Utilize Drive Focus/Do Not Disturb: Use features on your phone to silence notifications and allow only important calls.
- Refuse to Ride with Distracted Drivers: Offer to handle their calls or texts instead.
- Spread the Message: Use social media to remind friends that “no text, phone call, or selfie is worth a life.” Use #DontDriveDistracted.
- Set Boundaries: Inform callers you won’t respond while driving. Change your voicemail to reflect this.
- Be Brave Enough to Intervene: Speak up when you see someone distracted behind the wheel.
- Join the Movement: Help raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving with #ButNotWhileDriving (#BNWD).
How to Stay Focused
- Prepare Before Driving: Set GPS, music, and secure items before starting.
- Keep Hands & Eyes on Road: Use both hands and focus on the driving task.
- Passenger Help: Ask passengers to handle distractions like navigation or calls.
- No Multitasking: Avoid eating, texting, or complex tasks.
Together, we can protect lives and ensure that what happened to Jacy and her family never happens again.
WATCH: Groundbreaking documentary focuses on distracted driving