Wisconsin DOT new safety campaign highlights distracted drivers

MADISON, Wis. (WSAW) – The Wisconsin DOT is reminding drivers of their most necessary position behind the wheel — to give attention to security on the highway.

Greater than 10,000 crashes contain distracted driving yearly in Wisconsin. Preliminary numbers present 40 folks had been killed and greater than 2,700 had been damage in distracted driving crashes in 2022.

WisDOT’s latest security marketing campaign goals to place a face to these statistics, that includes close-call tales from the employees who’re most in danger when a driver turns into distracted on the roads. In a brand new video commercial, Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper David Yang shares his expertise when his parked cruiser was sideswiped by a semi on the interstate. The driving force had briefly appeared away from the highway forward.

“Trooper Yang was simply inches from a severe harm and even dying that day,” the Bureau of Transportation Security and Technical Providers Director David Pabst mentioned. “We ask drivers to do not forget that Wisconsin’s legislation enforcement officers, first responders, and upkeep employees are in peril on daily basis they go to work. Safely working a motorized vehicle at all times requires a driver’s full consideration. Don’t take the danger of trying away, even for only a second. It might be lethal.”

To keep away from the danger of distracted driving:

· Discover a place to park in a secure location if you should ship or learn a textual content.

· Select a passenger because the designated texter or navigator to get you to your location safely.

· Don’t scroll by means of apps whereas driving. Put your telephone out of attain for those who’re tempted to make use of it when behind the wheel.

State legislation prohibits the usage of a handheld cell system when driving by means of a building zone and emergency or roadside response areas. Drivers with an educational allow can’t use a telephone in any respect and texting is banned for all drivers in any location.

Something that takes a driver’s consideration off the highway is taken into account a distraction, together with cell telephones or different electronics, consuming, and even passengers. All types of distracted driving are harmful and preventable.

The brand new advert sequence continues the mission of WisDOT’s Buckle Up Telephone Down marketing campaign. It encourages each driver and passenger to take duty to remain secure on the roads by at all times placing the telephone down behind the wheel and at all times carrying a seat belt. Be taught extra and take the pledge on-line.

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