BreeAnn Silcox, coalition coordinator, Safe Kids Bear River
One in four car crashes involve a distracted driver, according to Zero Fatalities. In 2014, more than 3,000 people were killed in car accidents involving a distracted driver. It only takes one second for something to happen. It’s important that all drivers refrain from texting and driving. Put your devices down so you can focus on getting to your destination safely every time.
Follow these driving safety tips to help your family and others stay safe on the road:
- Eliminate distractions. Put cell phones and other distractions in the backseat or out of sight until you reach your destination. A text or phone call is never more important than a life.
- Be alert around neighborhoods and schools. Be especially alert in residential neighborhoods and school zones. If you are driving behind a school bus and it has flashing red lights, stop immediately before reaching the bus. Do not proceed until the flashing red light signal stops.
- Watch for pedestrians. Give pedestrians the right of way and look both ways when making a turn to spot anyone who may not be easily visible.
- Slow down. With all this snow, it’s especially important to slow down and leave more room between those ahead of you and those off the road.
- Educate your kids. Remind your children to follow traffic signals and laws, make eye contact with pedestrians and enter/exit driveways and alleys carefully.
For more information, contact the Bear River Health Department at (435) 792-6500 or visit safekids.org.
