What is Distracted Driving?

In 2014, 3,179 people were killed, and 431,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers.

At any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving, a number that has held steady since 2010. (NOPUS)
Distracted driving kills and injures thousands of people each year. Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving. All distractions endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety. These types of distractions include:
  • Texting
  • Using a cell phone or smartphone
  • Eating and drinking
  • Talking to passengers
  • Grooming
  • Reading, including maps
  • Using a navigation system
  • Watching a video
  • Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player
Distracted Driving & Teens
Ten percent of all drivers 15 to 19 years old involved in fatal crashes were reported as distracted at the time of the crashes. This age group has the largest proportion of driv­ers who were distracted at the time of the crashes. (NHTSA)

Take the Pledge

The fight to end distracted driving starts with you. Make the commitment to drive phone-free. 
  • Protect lives by never texting or talking on the phone while driving.
  • Be a good passenger and speak out if the driver in your car is distracted.
  • Encourage friends and family to drive phone-free.

It's the Law

DISTRACTION.GOV provides the most current information on state laws and distracted driving. Driving in NYS...know the facts?

Remember... there is a ban for drivers of all ages on handheld devices and texting.