Distracted Driving Awareness Month

April is DISTRACTED DRIVING AWARENESS MONTH. Inattentive driving accounts for 1-in-4 crashes in Minnesota.

Reminders from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety:

• Cell phones — turn off cell phones, or place them out of reach to avoid the urge to dial or answer. If a passenger is present, ask them to handle calls/texts.
• Music and other controls — pre-program favorite radio stations for easy access and arrange music (mp3 player/CDs/tapes) in an easy-to-access spot. Adjust mirrors and heat/AC before traveling, or ask a passenger to assist.
• Navigation — designate a passenger to serve as a co-pilot to help with directions. If driving alone, map out destinations in advance, and pull over to study a map.
• Eating and drinking — try to avoid food/beverage, at least messy foods, and be sure food and drinks are secured.
• Children — teach children the importance of good behavior in a vehicle; do not underestimate how distracting it can be to tend to children while driving.
• Passengers — speak up to stop drivers from distracted driving behavior.
• When making/receiving a call, ask if the person is driving. If so, ask them to call back at a safer time.