Whether it be from texting or calling, distracted driving is dangerous and April has been set aside as Distracted Driving Awareness Month to draw attention to the problem.

About 1.6 million crashes a year are caused by distracted driving (www.edgarsnyder.com). April is all about putting down your phone and paying attention to the road. If you are driving at 60 miles per hour and you take your eyes off the road, this can be very dangerous which can lead to serious injuries.

This crucial month was inspired by the tragic accident of Shelley Forney. One day, Shelley came home to find an ambulance and fire trucks in front of her house. Her daughter had been hit while riding her bike. In the investigation, it was revealed that the driver had been talking on the phone while driving. Shelley’s daughter had passed away due to her injuries in the hospital (www.chaffinluhana.com).

You don’t have to contribute to similar situations. Make smart choices while driving. If you need to send a text, pull over or wait until you get to your destination to send it. Allow your passenger to navigate, make/answer calls, or text anyone needed. Don’t scroll through social media while driving. Put your phone away so you do not touch it while driving (www.nhtsa.gov/distracted-driving).

This month, and year round, pay attention on the road. Drive responsibly; the consequences of distracted driving can be so much worse than just a missed message. No text or phone call is worth your life or someone else’s life.