In recent years Waterbury, Connecticut residents, along with residents in countless other neighborhoods across the country, have learned about the dangers of distracted driving. In previous years passengers and pets were the primary distractions to Waterbury drivers. But now, with the advent of smart phones, residents in many Connecticut towns are facing an epidemic of drivers who are physically present behind the wheel, but mentally more engaged in their technology than paying attention to the roads.
The state of Connecticut has strict laws against people using their smart phones while driving. However, the laws have not entirely eliminated the practice. It is with this in mind that the National Distracted Driving Awareness Month was created. Governments across the country will be simultaneously cracking down on distracted driving and educating the populace about its dangers and how to avoid it.
As part of the program the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will be expanding a program which was originally piloted in Connecticut (and other states) between 2010 and 2013. The program, which was called “Phone in One Hand. Ticket in the Other,” saw a reduction in the number of distracted driving cases in Connecticut, and was considered a success.
In doing our part we would like to encourage Waterbury residents to participate in National Distracted Driving Awareness Month by making a pledge to avoid distracted driving this month. Once you see how easy it is, hopefully you will make it a permanent practice.
The Law Offices of Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP – 89 Oak Street Hartford, CT 06106-1515 (888) 244-5480
