Are you distracted?
Estimates indicate that drivers using cell phones look but fail to see up to 50 percent of the information in their driving environment.
Driving deserves your undivided attention
Despite laws to prevent distracted driving, too many motorists still talk and text on cell phones while behind the wheel. They eat a meal. They rummage for things on the seats, floor, dashboard or other compartments. They even stare intently in the rearview mirror to comb their hair or apply make-up. Because they’re not paying attention to traffic conditions and road hazards, distracted drivers drastically increase their risks of causing a crash or failing to avoid one.
Although many multi-tasking activities can cause distracted driving, talking and texting on cell phones have received significant public and legislative attention. In November 2012, a state law went into effect that prohibits drivers with an instruction permit or probationary license, which includes many teenagers, from “using a cellular or other wireless telephone except to report an emergency” while driving. A previously enacted state law made texting while driving illegal for all motorists.
To help prevent texting while driving, two-time LG U.S. National Texting Champion Austin Wierschke of Rhinelander, Wis., is featured in Zero In Wisconsin media messages. Find out the one place where the nation’s top texter always puts his cell phone away. Remember to always Pay Attention or Pay the Price.
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Click here to learn more about distractions while driving.
Cell Phones Driving and the law — know the facts
Questions about the content of this page:
Steven Olson, steve.olson@dot.wi.gov
Last modified: April 2013
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