The US Department of Transportation officially released a new website that focuses on the risks associated with distracted driving on US roads.

From the homepage of distraction.gov

At the U.S. Department of Transportation, we heard America’s call to end the dangerous practice of distracted driving on our nation’s roadways. Distracted driving is a serious, life-threatening practice and we will not rest until we stop it.

We are leading the effort but you are the key to preventing distracted driving. The message is simple – Put it down!

We will work across the spectrum with private and public entities as well as advocacy groups to tackle distracted driving, and, we will lead by example. We have taken first steps — The President’s Executive Order has established a new way to approach driving – by putting your device down and paying attention to the task at hand.

Internally, the department’s agencies are already working together to share knowledge and promote a greater understanding of the issue, and identify additional strategies to end distracted driving. Check back to this site often so you can stay abreast of our progress and to view the latest updates and information.

The site contains links to recent news on distracted driving, links to the various state laws regarding texting and cell phones, statistics on distracted driving, as well as videos messages made for TV and even a video message from Oprah Winfrey.

What I find interesting is that normally one thinks of cell phones and texting when they think of distracted driving.  The DOT is considering a much larger list.

Other distracting activities include:

• Using a cell phone
• Eating and drinking
• Talking to passengers
• Grooming
• Reading, including maps
• Using a PDA or navigation system
• Watching a video
• Changing the radio station, CD, or Mp3 player.

I know it unnerves me when I’m driving next to someone and notice that they are reading a book, shaving, or putting on makeup while driving with their knee, but I think this is really the first time I’ve heard the government come out and address these types of behaviors in the same category as cell phones and texting. 

It will be interesting to see if this gets any traction and if we start hearing more about it.

What do you think of the distracted driving laws in your state?  Let us know in the comments below.

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