News & Articles

Prevent Distracted Driving: Solutions for all ages

January 22nd, 2018

Distracted driving results in the loss of thousands of lives each year. Texting and the use of handheld electronic devices is a major contributor to distracted driving accidents, however, it’s not the only cause.

Driving distracted is any activity that takes the driver’s eyes off the road and their hands off the wheel. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the following list of activities not only endanger the driver, but also pose a threat to passengers and bystanders:

  • Texting
  • Using a handheld electronic device
  • Eating and drinking
  • Talking
  • Grooming
  • Reading
  • Utilizing a navigation system
  • Watching videos
  • Adjusting a radio, MP3 player or any other listening device

Solutions for Everyone

The best way to prevent distracted driving is education. Education on the dangers of distracted driving is not just an individual responsibility; it’s a community responsibility.

Teens, parents, educators, employers and community groups all have access to distracted driving solutions and should take advantage of them.

Teens

Take the pledge developed by the NHTSA and commit to being a safe driver. Print it out, fill it in and place the pledge somewhere you’ll see often and be reminded about why you took the pledge. Share it with your friends and encourage them to do it with you.

Parents

Set a new family standard and sign the pledge together. Discuss ways to avoid distractions while driving and how you can support each other. Get familiar with your state laws.

Educators

Present and share the NHTSA facts with your students and other teachers within your school. Encourage parents to sign the pledge by sending home a letter with a few facts along with the pledge form.

Employers

Add a safe driving policy to your company handbook and support your employees with safe driving techniques. Share the facts of distracted driving with them along with other important information at the hiring stage and have them sign the pledge.

Community Groups

Decide to be the safety advocate among your neighbors, friends and family. Download the distracted driving campaign starter kit from the NHTSA. The kit gives you all the details needed to get started, how to speak with and get in touch with your local media, and other methods of raising awareness.

Together we can make a difference and lower the risks of distracted driving! If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of a distracted driver, we have the experience and resources you need to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Dale E. Anstine today for your free consultation with an attorney specializing in auto accidents in the York, Lancaster, Gettysburg and Harrisburg areas.