The latest National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHSTA) statistics show that 3,275 people were killed by distracted driving in 2023. Despite the alarming — and irrefutable — evidence that distracted driving kills, many are still guilty of it. A 2023 report from The Zebra revealed that more than 1 in 5 drivers still admit to texting while driving—and that’s just the beginning.
Distracted driving remains a serious problem in America, and it doesn’t stop with texting. As drivers try to get more done while they're behind the wheel, activities such as eating, taking photos, and applying makeup while driving are increasingly pulling attention away from the road and leading to accidents.
Distracted Driving Statistics Across the Country
Distracted driving includes anything that takes your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, or your mind off the task of driving. Even a brief glance at your phone or a quick reach for the radio can significantly increase your risk of a crash. Staying focused behind the wheel helps protect you—and everyone around you.
In The Zebra’s 2024 survey on driver behavior, the numbers speak volumes—distracted driving isn’t rare, it’s routine. While many drivers claim they “never drive distracted,” 47% admitted to sending or reading texts behind the wheel, and 60.2% reported talking on the phone while driving.
But that’s not all:
59% adjust their GPS while in motion
40% use apps mid-drive
59% eat or drink
22% snap photos or videos
11% apply makeup
And yet, 71% of respondents believe texting and driving is just as dangerous as drinking and driving. That number drops among younger drivers—30% of Gen Z think drinking and driving is worse, compared to just 10% of Boomers—suggesting a dangerous normalization of digital distractions.
Solutions to Distracted Driving
Most behind-the-wheel distractions can be avoided, or — at the very least — minimized. Below are a few ways to enhance your safety while on the roads.
Avoid Multitasking
Everyone thinks they’re the world’s greatest multitasker. However, a motor vehicle is not the place to practice your multitasking skills. Eating and drinking, putting on makeup, doing your hair, or taking a phone call while driving is a recipe for disaster. Finish your grooming, select your music or podcast of choice, and set your GPS before you start driving.
Educate Your Teens
As a parent, it’s important to talk with your teens about safe driving habits. You can also help them resist the urge to use their phone while behind the wheel by installing tools to eliminate distractions.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), teens between the ages of 16 and 19 have a higher rate of motor vehicle crashes than any other age group. Not only can a frank conversation help address some of the dangerous behaviors teens sometimes engage in, but completing a Parent-Teen Driving Contract can further solidify your expectation for your teen to engage in safe driving habits while they are behind the wheel.
Set a Good Example
It’s hard to tell your teens not to engage in risky behaviors when they see you doing the same things. Whenever you’re behind the wheel, put 100% of your focus on getting you and your family to your destination safely. Avoid using your phone, eating, drinking, or fiddling with the radio or your GPS system. It may seem like a harmless behavior, but eliminating these types of distractions may save a life.
