Distracted Driving Has Become New Normal

FLORIDA — Oct. 17-23 is National Teen Driver Safety Week, dedicated to raising awareness and seeking solutions to prevent teen injuries and deaths. State Farm agents often see the results of distracted driving and the consequences of this behavior among our teens. Unfortunately, we all know of someone who has been impacted by a distracted driver.

In April, State Farm released the results of a survey examining distracted driving. It revealed that we are still texting, speeding, looking at social media, grooming, gaming and taking selfies while behind the wheel. Nine out of 10 drivers said they engaged in distracted driving behaviors while driving.

Auto crashes are the No. 1 killer of teens. According to the survey, younger drivers were significantly more likely to exhibit other risky behaviors while driving, including speeding, driving drowsy, failing to use turn signals, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. All drivers need to start taking personal responsibility for the safety of themselves and others by making positive choices behind the wheel.

Distracted driving and crashes are preventable! That message should be the new normal.

Parents of teens should be good driving role models. Here are some unique Public Service Announce Announcements (PSA) created by the Florida Teen Safe Driving Coalition and State Farm in which teens educate their parents on the dangers of distracted driving.

Comedic Teen Driving PSA:

That new social media trend.. Wait until you're safely parked!

Don't get wrecked! Drive safe. Obey posted speed limits:

Mom and Dad.. Put the Phone Away!

Dad, what is this? Distracted driving is just as bad as drunk driving!

Vaping and driving is distracted driving!