In Louisiana, at least 193 people were killed from 2016-2020 because of some distraction either inside or outside the vehicle. Distracted driving is often under reported as a factor in crashes and the number could actually be much higher. Distracted driving deaths and injuries are preventable and the fight to end them starts with you.

In recent years, Louisiana has enacted legislation to restrict dangerous behaviors such as texting while driving, cell phone use in school zones, and cell phone use by those under the age of 18. A study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows 6 out of 10 teen crashes involve driver distraction and more than half of teen drivers reported using a cell phone while driving and more than 1 in 4 reported typing or sending a text message while driving in the past 30 days.

Although cell phone use and texting are two of the most common distractions, any activity that takes a driver’s mind off of the task of driving, hands off of the steering wheel, or eyes off of the road is considered a distraction.

Distracted and inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in our state. Troopers urge motorists to stay alert while driving. A lapse in one’s awareness can have deadly consequences.