The number of people killed in Michigan due to distracted driving doubled from 2014 to 2015, and the Michigan State Police want to remind drivers to keep their focus on the road.
To help remind motorists of the dangers of distracted driving, the MSP is starting their campaign called “Get Your Head Out of Your APP.’
The public awareness campaign wants to remind motorists to solely have their focus on driving, and the phrase used hopes to emphasize the importance of keeping the attention on the road when behind the wheel, according to a release.
Information is being shared on Facebook and Twitter using #JustDrive and #DistracedDriving.
The MSP state that distracted driving is not only using a cellphone, but also include eating, changing the radio station or any other activity that takes the attention away from the task of driving. In 2015, there were 28 fatalities involved in distracted driving, according to the MSP.
Some tips the MSP have to help curb distracted driving include:
• Secure items that may move around when the car is in motion. Don’t reach down or behind the seat to pick up items.
• Ask a passenger to help with activities that may be distracting.
• If driving long distances, schedule regular stops, every 100 miles or two hours.
A survey conducted by the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, shows nearly one if five young adult drivers consider themselves addicted to their cellphones. More than 40-percent admitted to regularly sending texts and emails while driving, according to the release.
According to the MSP, texting and driving is one of the most dangerous distractions because it involves taking the eyes off the road, hands off the wheel and takes the mind away from the task of driving. As of July 1, 2010, Michigan law prohibits texting while driving, and for a first offence motorists are fines $100. Subsequent offenses cost $200.
