NHP launches distracted driver campaign: U Drive, U Text, U Pay

A joint law enforcement campaign in Nevada will be focusing on distracted drivers on the state's roads from November 2 to 13 in an attempt to reduce deaths caused by drivers who are texting or making phone calls while behind the wheel.

In the first half of 2016, traffic deaths in the country rose 10.4 percent over 2015, meaning 1,665 more deaths in just six months. That follows a 7 percent increase in deaths the prior year.

The Nevada Highway Patrol will be working diligently to urge motorists to keep their eyes on the road and put away cell phones or other items that cause distractions. On average texting takes eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds. When traveling at 55 mph, that's enough time to cover the length of a football field blindfolded.

"Far too many of us are fiddling with our phones as we hurtle down the road," said Trooper Duncan Dauber of the NHP. "Please remember that the phone call or text can wait until you have arrived at your destination safely."

The Highway Patrol urges all motorists to keep their focus on the road while operating a motor vehicle, and that everyone arrives safely to their destination free of crashes and or a ticket!

"We are all depending on you," said Dauber.

For resources about distracted driving, please visit:
http://www.distraction.gov/stats-research-laws/facts-and-statistics.html

For more information on Joining Forces and other statewide traffic safety programs, please visit http://www.zerofatalitiesnv.com. Follow Zero Fatalities Nevada on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and @ZeroFatalitiesNV.