Key Messages

  • April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. We are using this opportunity to remind motorists about the dangers of distracted driving. 
  • There will be over 150 law enforcement agencies throughout the state that will be sending out extra patrols between April 2 and 14.
  • The first Driving Under the Influence of Electronics (E-DUI) ticket will cost drivers $136. If the driver incurs a second ticket within five years, the fine increases to $234.
  • Law Enforcement will be ticketing motorists who are illegally using electronics behind the wheel.
  • These extra patrols are part of Target Zero, which is a plan to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries on Washington’s roadways.
  • Drivers are three times more likely to crash when talking on the phone, and 23 times more likely to crash when entering information into their phone.
  • In general, male drivers engage in high-risk behaviors such as impairment and speeding more often than female drivers of comparable ages. However, female drivers in fatal crashes are slightly more likely to be distracted than their male counterparts.
  • A recent survey of 1,000 Washington women between the ages of 16-34 showed that:
    • 96% agreed that using a cell-phone in any capacity while they are driving is dangerous.
    • 91% agreed that they may cause an accident by using their cell phone while driving. 
    • Only 1% were “very comfortable” being a passenger in a car with a driver who is texting.
  • However:
    • 96% have their phone on while driving.
    • 91% use their phone’s GPS to navigate.
    • 64% answer a ringing phone while driving.
    • 59% use their phone stopped at a traffic light.
    • 48% read an incoming text message.
  • Law enforcement officers have written nearly 1,500  E-DUI tickets each month since the new law began in July 2017.
  • What can we all do to avoid the dangers of distracted driving?
    • Turn off your phone and put it in the glove box. 
    • If you’re a passenger, hold the driver’s phone (98% say they will stop using their phone if a passenger asks). 
    • Don’t text or call a friend or loved one if you know they are driving. 
    • If using GPS on your phone, plug in the address before you start the car and use a mounted phone holder. 
    • Talk to family members about the risks of cell phone use.  Model responsible behavior.

   

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