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U Drive. U Text. U Pay.


For the past decade, distracted driving has taken U.S. roadways by storm, endangering not only the distracted drivers, but their passengers, pedestrians and others using the road. When we're behind the wheel, we must focus on one task: safe driving. Anytime you shift your attention from driving, you're distracted.

Distracted driving comes in many forms: adjusting the radio or GPS, applying makeup, eating and drinking. But it’s cell phone use — specifically, texting, talking, and social media use — that has become the most common distraction. Texting, which includes messaging, is considered the most dangerous type of distracted driving because it combines visual, manual and cognitive distraction.

Distracted Driving Is Deadly

3522.00
Lives lost in crashes involving distracted drivers in 2021 — that's 3,522 too many
8.00 %
Fatal crashes in 2021 that involved distracted drivers
32000.00 +
Approximate number of people who died in crashes involving distracted drivers from 2012-2021

Pay Attention or Pay the Price

Graphic with text, keep your eyes on the road, don't text and drive.NHTSA’s U Drive. U Text. U Pay. campaign reminds drivers of the deadly dangers and the legal consequences – including fines – of texting and other forms of messaging behind the wheel. Forty-eight states, as well as Washington, DC, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the Virgin Islands, have passed laws making it illegal to text while driving. From April 3-10, you may notice an increase in police enforcing texting and distracted-driving laws and reminding drivers of the dangers.

Since 2007, drivers 16 to 24 years old have been distracted by devices at higher rates than other drivers, but we're all at risk for distracted-driving crashes. Consider these tips for safe driving:

•   If you must send or receive a text, pull over to a safe location and park your car first.

•   If you have passengers, appoint a “designated texter” to handle all your texting.

•   If you can’t resist the temptation to look at your phone, keep it in the trunk.

STAY SAFE
TAKE THE PLEDGE

The fight starts here. Take action today, and pledge to stop driving distracted.

Commit yourself to saving lives by never texting or using your phone while driving, and speak up when you see others distracted. #justdrive

TAKE THE PLEDGE

Pay It Forward: Get the Word Out

You can help save lives by helping NHTSA raise awareness with outreach and essential education. Share vital facts with your community. #justdrive