Mercury Insurance has teamed up with Anze Kopitar, the Los Angeles Kings’ All-Star center to spread awareness about the dangers of texting while driving (TWD). Kopitar, a two-time NHL all-star, will appear in a public service announcement (PSA) urging drivers of all ages to put away their cell phones when behind the wheel.

“Aside from being one of the premier players in the NHL, Anze is also one of the most well-liked and respected players off the ice,” said Erik Thompson, Mercury advertising director. “He provides a great example through actions and is determined to make a difference at the community level. He also fully understands the dangers associated with texting while driving, making him the perfect choice to help spread this message.”

Kopitar joins NASCAR’s youngest licensed driver, Andrew Murray, age 15, as the most recent athletes to endorse Mercury’s pledge, which launched during the 2011 Mercury Insurance Open tennis tournament in Carlsbad, Calif.

“Texting while driving is a growing problem throughout the country,” said Kopitar. “It leads to tens of thousands of deaths a year, so I am asking all Kings fans to join [us] by signing Mercury’s ‘Don’t Text and Drive’ pledge.”

Kopitar’s 30-second “Don’t Text and Drive” PSA will premiere on FOX Sports West during the Kings game tonight at the end of the first period.

The spot features Kopitar doing what he does best…effortlessly firing a slap shot toward the back of the net.

Special Reports /

&lsquo;Don&rsquo;t Text and Drive&rsquo; PSA Features L.A. Kings Star

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‘Don’t Text and Drive’ PSA Features L.A. Kings Star