The Malta Independent on Sunday
Fundación Mapfre supports #putitaway campaign against texting and driving
The main purpose of the campaign is avoiding accidents by creating awareness on the dangers of using the mobile while driving. Although it is illegal to use a handheld phone at the wheel, an average of 2,000 drivers are fined every month for using mobile phones while driving.
Research shows that drivers are four times more likely to be in an accident if they use a phone while driving − reaction time is three times slower when texting and a split second lapse could result in an accident.
The campaign has been designed by Bay Radio and it is determined to make the Maltese roads safer by encouraging motorists to avoid using handheld phones while driving with the #putitaway campaign. The campaign will run throughout the summer months as a constant reminder to put the phone away before starting the engine.
Fundación Mapfre supports this campaign as part of its works to drive economic, social and cultural improvements on societies wherein the Mapfre Group of companies is present. The Fundación's operations focus on five areas: Accident Prevention and Road Safety, Insurance and Social Protection, Culture, Social Action and Health Promotion.
“We are pleased to contribute towards such a campaign, because it is extremely important to instil a culture of preventing accidents,” said Felipe Navarro, Mapfre Middlesea CEO.
As part of the campaign an information website has been created on www.putitaway.com.mt highlighting the danger of texting while driving and using the phone. This campaign is also being supported by Transport Malta, the Malta Road Safety Council and the Ministry of Health.