A continuing epidemic: Texting while driving

Somewhere there is a 17-year-old student who will never see senior prom, a college student who will never see graduation, a young adult who will never have the opportunity to have children, and a mature adult who will never know their grandchildren. Why?

Texting while driving.

It’s an epidemic. And while most of us say we will never do it, too many of us can’t wait until we’ve reached our destination to look down at our phones. It’s just a glance. I’m not really taking my eyes off the road. An accident can’t happen that quickly.

We’ve all heard the sad stories and warnings, but maybe these staggering statistics can create a new resolve:

• According to ENDD.org, “Sending or receiving a text message distracts a driver for about five seconds; at highway speeds, that represents a distance of about 300 feet in which the car is essentially out of human control, driving itself.”
• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that driver distraction is the cause of about 5% of all fatal crashes.
• Over half of teens 18 and older text or email while driving.
• 77% of teens say they see their parents texting or emailing while driving.

Heard enough? These shocking statistics will unfortunately keep getting worse with time. When will it stop? What can we do?

By making a conscious effort to prioritize safe driving habits, we can protect ourselves and our communities while on the road.

So, what can we do to ensure we’re being responsible drivers and avoiding the temptation to text while driving? Here are some practical tips to help you stay safe on the road:

1. Put Your Phone Away: Designate a specific spot for your phone where it’s out of sight and out of reach while driving. This simple action can help eliminate the urge to check messages or notifications. Even better, put your phone on silent or set a Do Not Disturb text response.
2. Use Hands-Free Options: If you must make a call or respond to a message while driving, consider using hands-free features like Bluetooth in your vehicle or voice commands on your phone.
3. Plan Ahead: Before you start driving, set your GPS, playlist, and any necessary apps. Make any adjustments needed before hitting the road to minimize distractions.
4. Take Breaks: Long drives can be tiring, leading to decreased focus. Schedule breaks during your journey to rest, stretch, and recharge, keeping your mind alert and attentive.
5. Be Mindful of Others: Remember that your actions on the road not only impact your safety but also the safety of those around you. Stay vigilant, patient, and considerate of fellow drivers.

By incorporating these safe driving tips into your routine, you can actively contribute to a culture of responsible driving and help prevent accidents caused by distracted driving. Your commitment to staying focused and present while behind the wheel can make a significant difference in ensuring the well-being of yourself and others on the road. Let’s empower each other to make safe choices and create a safer, more mindful driving environment for all.

Motivate others to wait a few minutes to talk or text on a phone. The best thing you can do is to personally decide to never text and drive again. Let it begin with you.