OWL VFD Wants You to Stop Using Your Phone While Driving

During National Safety Month, Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department wants you to be aware of the dangers of distracted driving, and to not use your phone while behind the wheel.

“Distracted driving can cause accidents that include property damage, injury and even death, said OWL VFD, Chief Rick Michael. “We respond to accident scenes every day. All it takes is a moment to cause a crash.  No call or text is worth a life,” said Michael.

Distracted driving can be a fatal mistake.  In 2019, 3,142 people were killed and hundreds of thousands injured in crashes involving distracted drivers nationwide.

To prevent tragedies due to distracted driving, everyone should:

• Turn off electronic devices and put them out of reach before starting to drive.
• Be good role models for young drivers and set a good example.  Talk with your teens about responsible driving.
• Speak up when a driver uses an electronic device behind the wheel.  Offer to make the call for the driver, so his or her full attention stays on the road.
• Always wear your seat belt.  Seat belts are your best defense against unsafe drivers.
• Be alert for pedestrians and cyclists, especially those who may themselves be distracted.

Facts provided by the NHTSA