MERIDIAN, ID – The Idaho State Police (ISP) and its Commercial Vehicle Safety Division are joining national efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving throughout the month of April, recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
According to ISP, 3,275 people died in 2023 in crashes involving distracted drivers, accounting for 8% of all fatal crashes nationwide. Over the past ten years, more than 32,000 lives have been lost due to distracted driving incidents.
“Behind every distracted driving fatality is a family forever changed,” said Captain Jason Bailey of ISP’s Commercial Vehicle Safety Division. “Whether it’s a quick text, a call, or checking a GPS app, taking your eyes off the road for even five seconds is all it takes.”
Distractions include texting, using a phone, eating, adjusting music, or conversing with passengers. Texting remains the most concerning distraction due to the amount of time it diverts attention from the road.
ISP encourages drivers to take steps to reduce distractions:
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Park before sending messages.
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Use “Do Not Disturb” features while driving.
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Let passengers handle calls and texts.
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Speak up if someone is driving distracted.
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Set an example by staying focused on the road.
The agency also highlighted the importance of parental influence in helping young drivers understand the responsibilities of driving distraction-free.
For more information and educational materials, the public is encouraged to visit www.nhtsa.gov/distracted-driving.
