We have all been there. Your cell phone rings or that important text message comes in while you happen to be driving. Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving. People drive distracted every day in every community across the country. In 2014 alone, 3,179 people were killed, and 431,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers .

All distractions endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety.

These types of distractions include:

But, because text messaging requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention from the driver, it is by far the most alarming distraction.

Here is Liz’s story on how distracted driving changed her life forever:

The youngest and most inexperienced drivers are most at risk of distracted driving, with 16% of all distracted driving crashes involving drivers under 20. But they are not alone. At any given moment during daylight hours, over 660,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone.

Here are some tips to help you remain focused while behind the wheel:

Have the Talk

Driving is a serious responsibility. Discuss what it means to be a safe driver with your teen and set ground rules for when they’re behind the wheel. If your teen is on the road, they should stay off the phone.

Make a Family Pledge

Print out this pledge form and have every member of your family commit to distraction-free driving. Set a positive example for your kids by putting your cell phone in the glove compartment every time you drive.

Know the Laws in Your State

Many states have Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws that include cell phone and texting bans for young drivers. Remind your teen driver that there could be serious consequences for violating these laws – including a delayed or suspended license.

Distracted driving kills. The friends, family, and neighbors of the thousands of people killed each year in distracted driving crashes will tell you it is a very serious safety problem. The nearly half a million people injured each year will agree.The best way to end distracted driving is to get educated on the danger it poses.

For more information, contact your trusted local insurance agent, Sandi Purinton with The Insurance Connection. We help our clients Live Better. Save More. That’s what we try to help you do at The Insurance Connection. Offering the benefits of an independent agency, The Insurance Connection carefully considers your individual insurance needs and finds the right coverage for the best price for you, all with a smile. Contact us today at 678-439-8757 or info@insconnectga.com to get free insurance quotes

Disclaimer: This material is for information only and is not intended to provide legal or professional advice. You are encouraged to consult with your own attorney or other expert consultants for a professional opinion specific to your situation. This information is only a general description of the available coverages and is not a contract. In an effort to keep your policy coverage affordable, the actual policy contains certain limitations and exclusions. Please refer to your insurance policy for the pertinent contract language and coverages. Some coverages and discounts are not available in all states. The Insurance Connection welcomes all applications, without regard to religion, race, color, national origin, sex, handicap or familial status.

The post Are You Driving Under the Influence of Your Phone? appeared first on The Insurance Connection.