Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation, in collaboration with the Illinois State Police and over 200 local law enforcement agencies, is actively participating in Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The initiative aims to remind drivers to "Drop it and Drive" by enforcing laws against texting and other forms of distracted driving throughout April.

Steve Travia, IDOT's Director of Highways and Chief Engineer, expressed concern over the prevalence of phone use while driving. "It has become all too common to see people driving while looking at their phones," he stated. Travia emphasized that despite the known dangers and illegality of texting while driving, many continue this risky behavior. As a result, there will be increased law enforcement efforts this month, with officers issuing tickets to those caught violating these laws.

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that more than 32,000 fatalities occurred in distraction-related crashes from 2011 to 2020. In 2020 alone, driver distraction accounted for 3,142 deaths or 8% of all traffic fatalities. Illinois law bans the use of hand-held electronic devices while driving unless they are used in hands-free mode.

Col. Margert McGreal, Deputy Director of Patrol for the ISP Division, highlighted last year's statistics: "Last year, the Illinois State Police issued more than 7,200 citations and almost 10,500 warnings for distracting driving. We've already issued more than 1,300 citations and 1,900 warnings this year." She noted that talking or texting on the phone are among the most common offenses related to distracted driving.

To maintain focus on safe driving practices, officials recommend several strategies: pulling over safely if expecting a text or needing to send one; using a passenger as a "designated texter"; avoiding social media interactions while behind the wheel; and utilizing your phone's "Do Not Disturb" feature to prevent distractions.

Driving while using a mobile phone poses significant risks not only financially but also potentially endangering lives. The campaign underscores saving money—and possibly lives—by waiting until reaching one's destination before texting or calling.