As April kicks off Distracted Driving Awareness Month, Snellville Police is urging all drivers to stay focused behind the wheel and put down their distractions. Each year, distracted driving claims thousands of lives and causes even more injuries, and this month serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and attention while driving. Within the city limits, the Snellville Police Department has seen a rise in distracted driving related collisions over the years with the popularity of smart phones and social media on the rise.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is responsible for more than 3,000 fatalities annually in the United States. With the rise of smartphone usage, in-vehicle technology, and other distractions, the risk of accidents continues to increase.
Key Facts About Distracted Driving:
- Texting and driving increases the risk of crashing by up to 23 times.
- Distracted driving includes activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting in-car entertainment or navigation systems, and more.
- Drivers can become distracted in the blink of an eye—taking their attention away from the road for just a few seconds can lead to devastating consequences.
What You Can Do:
- Put Your Phone Away: If you must make a call or send a message, pull over safely first. Keep your phone out of reach to avoid the temptation.
- Focus on the Road: Avoid using in-car tech systems while driving. Set up your GPS or playlist before you start driving.
- Be a Role Model: Encourage others, especially young drivers, to stay focused and avoid distractions while driving.
Snellville Police Department is committed to reducing distracted driving accidents through education, outreach, and support for safer driving habits. This month, Snellville Police is partnering with local authorities, schools, and community groups to host events and campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. Throughout the month, Snellville Police will be conducting proactive traffic enforcement details in an effort to combat the dangers of distracted driving.
Join us in the effort to reduce distracted driving and keep our roads safe. Together, we can make a difference.