NEW CITY, NY — As April marks Distracted Driving Month, the Rockland County Department of Health, the Rockland County STOP-DWI Program, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are joining forces to combat the dangers of distracted driving, identified as the leading cause of accidents in New York State.
Highlighting the peril, officials point out that engaging with cell phones, such as sending or reading texts, is particularly hazardous. At 55 mph, looking away from the road for just five seconds is equivalent to driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
In response to these alarming statistics, the New York State Police will launch “Operation Hang Up” from April 1 through April 8, 2024. This initiative will increase patrols and establish checkpoints specifically to catch drivers using electronic devices.
The NHTSA advises drivers to minimize risks by pulling over to safely text, designating a passenger as a “texter,” or storing the phone out of reach, like in the trunk, to avoid temptations. The goal is to model responsible behavior, especially for impressionable young drivers.
Dr. Albert Del Principio, Rockland County STOP-DWI & Traffic Safety Coordinator, stresses the gravity of the situation, noting, “Texting while driving is six times as deadly as driving drunk; 25% of car accidents are due to cell phone use, and 11 teens die from texting and driving daily. No call or text is worth a life.”
County Executive Ed Day also underscores the critical need for constant vigilance: “Keeping your eyes on the road is vital—not just for your safety but for everyone on the road.”
Additionally, the Rockland County Department of Health is collaborating with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee on the “See! Be Seen!” initiative, aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety through community education.
Residents seeking more information on distracted driving and safety tips can visit the NHTSA’s dedicated webpage and the Rockland Safe Streets website. These resources are part of a broader effort to ensure the streets of Rockland County remain safe for all.