Adult Audience Only
SUMMARY
Distracted driving is considered “any activity that diverts the driver’s attention away from driving,” according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The distractions can include a wide range of a driver’s or passenger’s personal actions or activities while in a vehicle. Even if a driver is only trying to keep Scouts in their seats while the vehicle is in motion, that is a distraction.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Potentially Deadly Consequences
Distracted driving can have deadly consequences. In 2018, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 14% of all motor vehicle traffic crashes in the U.S. involved distraction, and 2,841 people died in crashes involving a distracted driver.
Preventing Distractions
BSA’s Risk Zone: Vehicle webpage, “Transporting Scouts Safely,” identifies some best practices to observe in minimizing or eliminating distractions while driving:
- When you get in a vehicle, put away your mobile device so you won’t be tempted to look at or answer it.
- Turn the mobile device to “silent” or “off.”
- Only check your texts and messages during rest stops or food breaks.
- If you must use the phone, pull off the road and to a safe location.
- Do not call or send messages while you are driving or to others you know are driving.