Any non-driving activity behind the wheel is a potential distraction and increases the risk of crashing, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Distracted driving includes talking or texting on the phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in the vehicle, and working the stereo, entertainment or navigation system. The latest data compiled by the NHTSA shows:
  • Nearly 290,000 people were injured in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers in 2022.
  • Distracted drivers caused 8% of fatal crashes in 2022, claiming 3,308 lives.
  • Over 32,000 died in crashes involving distracted driving between 2013 and 2022.
"Texting is the most alarming distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for five seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed," the NHTSA says. NHTSA tips for safer driving:
  • If you have to text, pull over to a safe location and park your car — only then should you read or send the text message.
  • Distracted driving isn't just texting, scrolling through social media or messaging while driving is distracted driving too.
  • Appoint your passenger as the "designated texter" to respond to calls or messages.
  • Activate your phone's "Do Not Disturb" feature, silence notifications, or your put phone away in the trunk so you won't be tempted to respond.
  • Speak up if you see someone texting and driving and ask them to put their phone away.
While U.S. states determine laws affecting distracted driving, the NHTSA said it provides federal investments to local strategies that address the states' specific needs like April's Distracted Driving Awareness Month, which pairs a national advertising campaign with a law enforcement crackdown called Put the Phone Away or Pay. The slideshow above illustrates the cars most often getting totaled in 2023 as selected by Levine and Wiss.  See also:
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