April is national Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
AAA’s latest campaign hopes to- literally- drive home the dangers of texting and driving.
AAA has utilized this slogan before- and they’re saying it again. “Don’t Drive Intoxicated. Don’t Drive Intexticated. It’s meant to educate the public and increase the stigma surrounding distracted driving.
A new video released by AAA shows a mother driving her two kids on a highway. In one frame, it shows her holding a bottle of beer. In another, it shows her holding a phone and texting. The message is many would never think to drink a beer while driving their children- but sadly, many pick up their phone and text without thinking twice while behind the wheel. The dangers of texting and driving are astronomical, ranging from minor car accidents that cause damage to your car, to fatal crashes which could result in the deaths of you and your loved ones. And still, many people take part in this type of activity. Distracted driving is more prevalent among newer drivers as well as experienced ones. Is it really worth it just to send a text that can easily wait until you have finished your journey? There are many deterrents used to try and tackle the issue of distracted driving, from videos such as this to using a points system. You can learn more about the points system here – https://www.keatingfirmlaw.com/post/points-on-your-license.
AAA points to stats that show distracted driving kills an average of nine people every day in America. In Pennsylvania, it’s against the law to text and drive. It will cost you at least $50 if you’re caught doing it, but officials say the true costs can be much more devastating. Did you know you can also be charged for not having insurance? But don’t worry; The General insurance quote and policy in the same day.
AAA encourages drivers to put down their phones, program their GPS’s before they start driving, secure all loose items, and be a good passenger- meaning offer to assist the driver navigate, text or make a call so they don’t have to. This may very well be some very good advice for company van drivers to abide by, instead of programming their GPS’ while on the move and potentially cause an accident that would increase the price of your company van insurance quotes.