3,142 people were killed in fatal distracted driving accidents in 2019, making this the cause of 8.7% of all crash fatalities that year, according to the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is any non-driving activity a person engages in that has the potential to distract them from the primary task of driving and increase the risk of crashing.
Sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the equivalent –at 55 mph-of driving the length of an entire football field, blind.
Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous of all distracted driving activities, because it takes your hands off the wheel and eyes and mind off the road.
Watch a video of distracted driving with catastrophic consequences. Zero Fatalities: Reggie Shaw's Story
For more information on distracted driving, see additional information from:
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Traffic Safety Marketing
Cell phones aren't the only distraction when driving, other distractions listed on Montana crash reports include:
Distractions are deadly, especially for teen drivers. You can ride like a friend by wearing a seat belt, reducing distractions, respecting the driver, and helping the driver if asked. These safe passenger behaviors will help reduce crash risk and injuries and deaths if crashes do occur.
Sheila Cozzie
Transportation Planner
406-444-7301 |
