April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the Kansas Department of Transportation, and law enforcement agencies across the state are working to educate drivers of the dangers of driving while distracted. In 2017, 28% of all traffic crashes in Kansas were attributed to driver inattention or distractions.

Usually associated with cell phone use, but many other situations can cause distractions like interacting with children, eating food, using electronic devices, and attention to what's happening outside the vehicle, has contributed to tens of thousands of crashes in Kansas alone. Phone texting, social media or internet activity can lead to a minimum $60 ticket plus court costs, or even injury or death. Law enforcement officers also encourage you to “just drive”. Turn off electronic devices and keep both eyes on the road. Passengers, too, should stay alert and hold the driver accountable.