Distracted driving can be a killer

To the Times:

No life is worth losing to driver distraction. In Pennsylvania, there were 13,729 crashes where a distracted driver was a contributing factor in 2019, more than drunk drivers and drowsy drivers combined. Fiftysix of those crashes were fatal. Each crash and fatality has one thing in common – it was 100 percent preventable.

Distractions include more than texting. Anything that diverts attention from driving — eating and drinking, adjusting navigation, talking to other passengers, or talking or texting on the phone — can result in tragedy. There is no text message or Snapchat worth reading or sending when injuring or killing someone is the potential cost.

The consequences of alcohol-impaired driving and texting while driving could be the same, so AAA urges drivers: “Don’t Drive Intoxicated. Don’t Drive Intexticated.” Put aside electronic distractions and never use text messaging, email, video games or internet functions, including those built into the vehicle, while driving. Stow your smartphone away, turn it to airplane mode, or activate call/text blocking features.

Drivers should always stay focused and avoid anything that diverts attention. Be sure to actively scan the road, use mirrors, and watch out for pedestrians and cyclists. Enlist passengers’ help as a “designated texter.” Ask them to answer your calls, respond to texts and program navigation.

Plain and simple - focused drivers save lives. AAA urges all drivers to pay attention and focus on the road during this National Distracted Driving Awareness month and all year long. For more information, visit AAA.com/dontdrivedistracted.