As more drivers hit the road in the spring and summer months, the Idaho State Police urge drivers to stay focused while behind the wheel.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time to acknowledge the many lives lost in crashes involving distracted drivers. More than 3,200 people died in such crashes in 2023, according to ISP, accounting for about 8% of all fatal crashes. 

“Behind every distracted driving fatality is a family forever changed,” said Capt. Jason Bailey of ISP Commercial Vehicle Safety. “Whether it’s a quick text, a call or checking a GPS app, taking your eyes off the road for even five seconds is all it takes. That’s the length of a football field at 55 mph — with your eyes closed. Don’t do it. Whatever it is, it can wait.” 

Distracted driving includes anything that diverts attention from the task of driving, including texting, talking on the phone or to passengers and eating.