Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has launched the office’s comprehensive “One Road. One Focus” public safety campaign aimed at increasing awareness about the dangers and consequences of distracted driving.
The initiative includes a new video requirement for student drivers, billboard advertisements to promote awareness, and expanded distracted driving patrols.
Targeted primarily at younger drivers, the campaign aligns with Distracted Driving Awareness Month, observed every April to promote safer driving habits. According to the latest figures from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 3,300 people lost their lives and over 300,000 were injured in crashes involving distracted drivers in 2023.
As part of the effort, teen drivers applying for a learner’s permit are now required to watch a new instructional video titled “One Road. One Focus.” The video highlights how reckless driving behaviors, such as texting while driving, can have devastating ripple effects on families, friends, and communities. This year, over 165,000 high school students seeking their learner’s permits will view the video.
The campaign also features a billboard initiative encouraging drivers to “Stop Texting, Start Driving.” A total of 15 billboards, donated by Springfield-based WC Media Inc., are strategically placed across the state to reinforce the message.
Funding for this campaign includes $77,000 in grant money from NHTSA. Additionally, the Illinois Secretary of State Police are increasing patrols in high-traffic crash areas throughout the year. These patrols will focus on enforcing distracted driving laws, issuing tickets, and serving as a deterrent to drivers tempted to text or engage in other distractions behind the wheel.
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