Phoenix – Governor Katie Hobbs has officially proclaimed April 2025 as Distracted Driving Awareness Month in Arizona, reinforcing the state’s commitment to promoting safer roadways and preventing needless tragedies. The statewide observance aligns with the National Safety Council’s annual campaign and serves as a powerful reminder of the risks that come with taking your focus off the road — even for a second.
“We thank Governor Hobbs for standing with communities across Arizona and the nation in addressing one of the most preventable causes of traffic fatalities,” said Rick Murray, President and CEO of the Arizona Chapter National Safety Council (ACNSC). “Distracted driving kills. It’s that simple. But the good news is that every driver, passenger, and employer has a role to play in changing that. Together, we can save lives.”
In 2022 alone, distracted driving claimed 3,308 lives — an average of nine people every single day.
Distracted driving includes anything that takes your attention away from driving: texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or chatting with passengers. Texting is especially dangerous. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for an average of five seconds—enough time to drive the length of a football field blindfolded.
What You Can Do:
Drivers:
· Park before you text or call
· Use “Do Not Disturb” mode
· Hand your phone to a passenger
· Keep your phone out of reach
· Take feedback — your call or text can wait
Passengers:
· Speak up if the driver is distracted
· Offer to manage the phone so they can focus
Employers:
· Create a no-device policy
· Train employees and share regular reminders
· Lead by example—model distraction-free driving
Throughout April, ACNSC and the National Safety Council will share free resources, tools, and tips to help individuals and organizations tackle distracted driving risks.
To learn more and download free resources, visit:
https://acnsc.org/distracted-driving/
https://www.nsc.org/faforms/ddam-signup