State officials urge drivers to stay focused as distracted‑driving crashes continue to rise
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and North Carolina transportation officials are using the national campaign to remind drivers that even a brief lapse in attention can lead to a serious or fatal crash.
The N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and partner safety organizations participate each year by amplifying enforcement reminders, public‑education efforts, and statewide messaging aimed at reducing preventable collisions.
“Anything that takes your eyes, hands, or mind off the road puts everyone at risk,” NCDOT notes in its annual safety guidance.
Distracted driving remains one of the state’s leading contributors to roadway crashes.
What Counts as Distracted Driving?Phone‑related distractions – Reading or sending texts, Scrolling social media, Taking photos or video, Checking notifications and adjusting GPS or apps while driving.
Texting is considered the most dangerous
Other common distractions
– Eating or drinking
– Adjusting music, climate controls, or touchscreen menus
– Personal grooming
– Turning around to talk to children or manage pets
– Reaching for dropped items
– Looking at roadside activity or crash scenes
While North Carolina does not currently ban handheld phone use for adult drivers, several distracted‑driving behaviors are illegal under state laws.
Drivers Under 18 – Any phone use while driving is prohibited
A Month to Reset Driving Habits
Officials encourage drivers to use April as a reminder to silence notifications, program GPS before leaving, secure pets, and avoid multitasking behind the wheel. At highway speeds, looking away for just five seconds is equivalent to traveling the length of a football field without seeing the road.
“Staying focused is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent crashes,” NCDOT says. “Every driver plays a role in keeping North Carolina’s roads safe.”
© 2026 BCDollarSaver.com. All rights reserved.
Be the first to comment