The Distracted Driving Crisis in Pennsylvania
Every year, distracted driving kills approximately 3,000 people in the United States and injures hundreds of thousands more. According to PennDOT's distracted driving statistics, distracted driving is a contributing factor in thousands of crashes annually on the same roads that drivers from Croydon, Bensalem, Levittown, Bristol, and Burlington travel every day.
Understanding the real dangers of distracted driving and taking concrete steps to eliminate distractions can save lives — including your own.
The Numbers Don't Lie
Reading a text message takes an average of 4.6 seconds. At 55 mph, that is 371 feet — longer than a football field — driven without looking at the road. According to the NHTSA's distracted driving research, texting while driving makes you 23 times more likely to crash than an undistracted driver. Talking on a cell phone — even hands-free — reduces the amount of brain activity devoted to driving by 37%.
Pennsylvania's Distracted Driving Laws
Pennsylvania law prohibits texting while driving for all drivers. This is a primary offense, meaning police can pull you over solely for texting. The fine is $50 plus court costs and fees. For commercial drivers, federal FMCSA regulations prohibit all hand-held cell phone use while operating a commercial vehicle.
Practical Strategies to Eliminate Distraction
- Use Do Not Disturb mode every time you drive — both iPhone and Android have automatic driving modes
- Mount your phone before driving and do not touch it until you reach your destination
- Pull over to a safe location to handle urgent matters
- Eat before you drive or after you arrive, not while behind the wheel
- Set your GPS destination before you start moving
- Set a good example for young drivers in your household
Stay Safe on Bucks County Roads
The roads through Croydon, Bensalem, Levittown, Bristol, and Burlington are busy, and distracted driving makes them more dangerous for everyone. Put the phone down, focus on the road, and arrive safely. And when you need auto tags, registration, or insurance, come see us at Jordan's Auto Tags at 721 Bristol Pike, Croydon, PA 19021.
