Distracted Driving Campaign Focuses on Young Drivers
From April 10-15, law enforcement will aggressively ticket drivers who are texting behind the wheel
To kick off Distracted Driving Awareness month, U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx has announced the “U Drive. U Text. U Pay.” National Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign. According to a news release, state and local law enforcement will aggressively ticket drivers who are texting or using their mobile devices when behind the wheel from April 10-15.
“Distracted driving kills, there is no excuse for it, and it must stop,” said Secretary Foxx. “Across the country, we’re putting distracted drivers on notice: U Drive. U Text. U Pay. Texting and driving will at least cost you the price of a ticket but it could very well cost you your life or someone else’s.”
According to NHTSA data, at least 3,154 people were killed in crashes involving distracted drivers in 2013; including those who were texting and driving. The organization estimates that 424,000 Americans were injured in all distraction-affected crashes in 2013.
The campaign is supported by a $5 million national television, radio and digital advertising campaign, and reminds the public of the potential consequences of distracted driving.