OSEA Safety Blog

Stay Focused, Stay Alive: Distracted Driving Awareness

Every time you get behind the wheel, you're responsible for more than just your own safety—you’re responsible for the lives of everyone around you. Yet every day, distracted driving endangers countless lives on the road. As we observe Distracted Driving Awareness Month, it’s time to talk seriously about the habits that take our eyes, hands, and minds off the road—and how we can break them.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving. This includes:

• Texting or using a smartphone
• Eating or drinking
• Talking to passengers
• Adjusting the radio or navigation system
• Grooming or applying makeup

Texting is especially dangerous because it involves all three types of distraction:

• Visual: Taking your eyes off the road
• Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel
• Cognitive: Taking your mind off driving

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of a football field—blindfolded.

The Alarming Statistics

• In 2022, over 3,500 people were killed in crashes involving distracted drivers in the U.S.
• Teens and young adults are among the most at risk. Drivers aged 16–24 are more likely to use handheld devices while driving than older drivers.
• Experts believe these numbers are underreported, meaning the actual toll may be even higher.

It Can Wait: Changing the Culture

We often feel pressured to respond immediately to messages or notifications. But here’s the truth: Nothing is more urgent than your safety. Here are a few simple ways to stay focused behind the wheel:

• Silence notifications or activate Do Not Disturb While Driving mode.
• Pre-set your GPS and music before driving.
• Pull over safely if you need to take a call or send a message.
• Speak up if you're a passenger and the driver is distracted.

Parents, Employers, and Communities Play a Role Too

• Parents can set the tone by modeling safe driving behavior and having candid conversations with teens.
• Employers can create policies that discourage work-related texting or emailing while driving.
• Communities can spread awareness through schools, events, and local campaigns.

A Life-Saving Habit

The message is simple, but powerful: Eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and mind on the drive. Distracted driving is preventable, and awareness is the first step toward saving lives.

This month—and every month—commit to driving with purpose. Your life, and the lives of others, depend on it.