Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has become a deadly habit that endangers drivers and passengers, people in other vehicles, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and nearby pedestrians.
While we generally think of distracted driving as texting or talking on the cell phone, it can take many other forms: adjusting the radio station, applying makeup, eating, chatting with other passengers, or taking a sip of your drink can all distract a driver from the essential task of safe driving.
Texting has become one of the most common forms of distracted driving, and too many drivers are tempted to do this deadly—and often, illegal—activity.
The Frightening Stats
2024 KDOT Traffic Crash Facts - Distracted Driving Crashes
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA):
In 2024, there were 3,208 people killed and an estimated additional 315,167 people injured in crashes involving a distracted driver. Of those who died, 639 were pedestrians, bicyclists, or others not in a vehicle.
NHTSA also found that 404 of fatal traffic crashes reported as having cellphone use as a distraction (14% of all distraction-affected fatal traffic crashes) where at least one of the involved drivers was talking on, listening to, or engaged in some other cellphone activity at the time of the crash. In 2024, a total of 437 people died in crashes involving at least one driver who was engaged in cellphone-related activities.
Drivers in the 25-to-34 age group made up 20 percent of drivers in fatal traffic crashes but were 22 percent of distracted drivers and 27 percent of drivers distracted by cellphones in fatal crashes.
Safety Tips for Driving
If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location. Once you are safely off the road and parked, it is safe to text.
Make a passenger your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving. Cell phone use can be habit-forming. Tempted 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.
Put Your Phone Away or Get Ready to Pay
When you get behind the wheel, be an example to your family and friends by putting your phone away. Texting and driving isn’t “normal” behavior — it’s a selfish, deadly and, oftentimes, illegal activity that could kill you, a loved one, a friend, or a stranger.
In most states, texting while driving is illegal. You could end up paying a hefty fine.
If you see something, say something. If your friends text while driving, tell them to stop. Listen to your passengers: If they catch you texting while driving and tell you to put your phone away, put it down.
Remember, when you get behind the wheel, put your phone away.