How often do you talk on a cell phone while driving? Or type a quick text message? I have to say that while I try not to, I know I’ve been guilty of this in the past. It goes without saying, however, that no message or call is important enough to risk a life. Even reaching to adjust the station on the radio can be distracting enough to cause a life-altering crash.
In fact, what I’ve realized is that I need to have my phone either turned off completely or the volume turned down with it out of reach. Because I know if I hear a message or call come in, I’m going to want to answer it, even though I know better. I’ve now pledged to keep my eyes on the road. Every time I get behind the wheel, I decide to drive.
It’s just not worth it. For myself, for my kids, for the other drivers and pedestrians on the road.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the Auto Alliance want to increase awareness about the risks of distracted driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), of the nearly 33,000 roadway fatalities in 2012, there were 3,328 fatalities and approximately 421,000 injuries in distracted driving-related crashes.That’s an astronomical number when it could so easily be prevented.
Decide to Drive
Orthopaedic surgeons—the specialists who put bones and limbs back together after road crashes and traumas—along with our partners, the automakers, would rather help all drivers “decide to drive” each time they get in the car and to keep bones and limbs intact. The Decide to Drive program aims to empower drivers and passengers to speak up about distracted driving, continue the conversation at home, work and play, and reduce distracted behaviors behind the wheel.
And they’re looking for a catch phrase!
We are searching for the best slogan or catch phrase to bring awareness to distracted driving. Do you have a great idea? Submit it today! The contest will run May 30 – June 13, 2014.
Also, join us on Wednesday, May 28 at 12pm PT/3pm ET on Twitter for the #DecideToDrive Twitter Party. Click here for more information and to RSVP.
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
How about “Drive Don’t Die”… or maybe that is a little much.
@Emily, Maybe, but it gets the point across!
They just made it a law here in Utah that you can’t use your cell phone at all while driving. I think that need be everywhere.