• 01
  • December
    2011

We have written many posts about the importance of teen driving safety and the dangers of distracted driving. It's not that teenagers are the worst drivers on our roads - rather, they are simply the most inexperienced drivers, and the drivers most susceptible to texting while driving and other forms of distracted driving. We care for Florida's teens and want them to stay safe.

The U.S. Department of Transportation also cares. They have recently unveiled an ad campaign, called "OMG," that targets teenage distracted driving. You may see public service announcements in Regal Cinemas and on gas station televisions this month. "One text or call can wreck it all," is the message the DOT would like to get across to young drivers.

On distraction.gov, the DOT introduces teenagers to teenage car accident facts:

  • Car accidents are the leading cause of death for teens in the U.S.
  • Teenagers are the age group most likely to talk on cell phones and text while driving. In fact, 16 percent of all distracted driving accidents involve drivers under 20 years old.
  • Distracted driving comes in many forms, not just taking your eyes off the road. Cognitive distractions (concentrating on things other than driving) also lead to many car accidents.
  • While sending text messages, drivers have the same reaction time as drunk drivers.

More Distractions

Unfortunately, at a time when the government is making strides in combating distracted driving, some car manufacturing companies are increasing the risk. Center stacks on some new cars allow drivers to not only get directions, but also check Facebook, Twitter and other online goodies - all while driving. What may seem like a great idea to social media fans could lead to more injuries and more wrongful deaths.

Let's all get involved to stop distracted driving - teenagers and adults alike. Turn off your cell phones, ask car manufacturers to take the internet out of driving, and stay safe out there.

Source: NHTSA, "U.S. Department of Transportation Unveils 'OMG' PSA to Warn Teens About the Dangers of Distracted Driving," Nov. 28, 2011.