With the arrival of Summer and the upcoming Fourth of July holidays, IAD would like to remind everyone not to text or video chat while driving or use many different kinds of apps (I.e. Via Glide, FaceTime or SMS). It is illegal in many states, and is extremely dangerous. We strongly encourage everyone not to use those apps.
While everyone may enjoy receiving and sending messages – Let your smartphone take messages and respond to them when you are free or not behind the wheel. Distracted driving by the use of mobile devices has become a major safety issue in recent years.
Sobering Statistics Show That:
- While texting and driving: you are 23x times more likely to get involved in an accident! (1).
- Nationwide: approximately 3,000 teenagers die each year from texting and distracted driving (2).
- Distracting driving does not only affect teenagers – but for drivers of all ages! That includes adults and senior citizens.
If you must compose, read or sign a message – pull off the road someplace safe such as in a well lit parking lot or a rest area, or have someone else drive for you. If you expect to use your smartphone for an extended period of time during travel – It is strongly suggested that you delay your discussions, host a meeting later, or delay your travel.
Please take a few moments to remind your friends, family members, loved ones, and teenagers not to text or use apps while driving.
By paying attention to the road you can arrive safely and watch out for others who may be texting or driving erratically to avoid an accident.
No text or video message is worth a crash or your life!
Have a fun and enjoyable summer! Be Safe!
By: Donald Moore – IAD Media Chair
ASL Version: https://youtu.be/XtCgj6-ReLE
References
(1) http://www.textinganddrivingsafety.com/texting-and-driving-stats
(2) http://safety.trw.com/texting-while-driving-now-leading-cause-of-us-teen-deaths/0710/
