NEVADA – In recognition of Distracted Driving Awareness Month this April, the Zero Fatalities campaign is urging all drivers to stay safe behind the wheel by preventing roadway tragedies in Nevada.
Distracted driving continues to contribute to crashes, injuries, and fatalities across Nevada. In 2023, distracted driving killed 3,275 people nationwide. Distractions can include adjusting the radio or GPS, eating or drinking, applying makeup and cell phone use, which is one of the most common and dangerous forms of distraction.
State officials and safety partners are working to keep drivers focused through increased education and enforcement efforts. From April 3-20, participating law enforcement agencies across Nevada will take part in the Joining Forces Distracted Drivers Campaign. This campaign coordinates highly visible patrols statewide to educate motorists about the dangers of distracted driving and to help keep Nevada’s roads safe.
“Distracted driving continues to be a serious and entirely preventable danger on Nevada roadways,” said Anita Pepper, Public Information Officer for the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety. “Zero Fatalities is committed to preventing easily preventable crashes by educating drivers, promoting safe driving behaviors and working with law enforcement to keep Nevada’s roads safe for everyone.”
As Distracted Driving Awareness Month approaches, the Nevada Zero Fatalities program is ensuring that drivers stay safe on the road by utilizing these tips:
Safety Tips for Drivers
- If you are expecting a text message or need to send one that can’t wait, pull over and park your car in a safe location before using your device.
- Designate your passenger as your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
- Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
- Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, or put your cell phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.
- When getting behind the wheel, be an example to your family and friends by putting your phone away. You may see other people doing it, but that doesn’t mean texting and driving is a “normal” acceptable or safe behavior.
- Listen to your passengers: If they see you texting while driving and tell you to put your phone away, put it down.
Safety Tips for Passengers
- Speak up if your friends are texting while driving and tell them to stop.
- Offer to make calls or respond to messages for the driver.
Distracted driving is not only dangerous but also illegal in Nevada. Through continued education, enforcement and community engagement, Zero Fatalities and Nevada state officials are working together to reduce preventable crashes and save lives. Drivers are reminded that staying focused behind the wheel is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep Nevada’s roads safe for everyone. For additional information on the Zero Fatalities program, please visit ZeroFatalitiesNV.com.
For additional information on the Zero Fatalities program, please visit ZeroFatalitiesNV.com
About Zero Fatalities
Nevada’s Zero Fatalities Program is all about eliminating fatalities on Nevada roadways. Some people may think zero is an impossible goal, but when it comes to your family and friends, what other number would be acceptable? We’re aiming for zero because everyone matters. The road to zero targets key behaviors like buckling up, being pedestrian and motorcycle safe, eliminating impaired driving, focusing on the road, and stopping on red.
To learn more about Nevada traffic safety, log on to www.zerofatalitiesnv.com. Follow Zero Fatalities on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Media Contacts
Kirvin Doak Communications
ZF@kirvindoak.com
Anita Pepper, Public Information Officer
State of Nevada | Department of Public Safety | Office of Traffic Safety
a.pepper@dps.state.nv.us
