Deaths From Distracted Driving Increasing In Commonwealth

RICHMOND — Distracted driving is a fast-growing epidemic in Virginia and across the nation.
In 2017 more than 200 people were killed and more than 14,600 injured in accidents in Virginia that were a direct result of distracted driving, according to Shannon Valentine, the state’s secretary of transportation.
“Our insurance industry also is feeling the effects of this epidemic as we continue to see claims increase as a result of distracted driving. This results in higher insurance premiums for everyone,” noted Darlene Wells, executive vice president and general manager of Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. 
VFBMIC is a founding member of Drive Smart Virginia, a nonprofit organization that focuses on raising traffic safety awareness. Wells serves on the organization’s board of directors.
In December, Gov. Ralph Northam established an Executive Leadership Team on Highway Safety that is charged with reducing the rising number of fatalities on Virginia’s roadways. 
Virginia also has a new highway safety portal available by visiting www.TZDVA.org.
The portal offers safety recommendations related to everything from aggressive driving to teen driving safety, along with distracted driving information.
Many people think of texting and driving or talking on the phone when driving; however, you can also be distracted by:
— Changing the music.
— Eating and drinking.
— Putting on makeup/grooming.