The Cost of Distraction is a Heartbreaking Reality

Jacy’s life changed forever on a seemingly ordinary day. While driving southbound, her family was struck head-on by a car whose driver—an 18-year-old—had been distracted by his phone.

Both of Jacy’s parents were killed, and Jacy was left with unspeakable physical and emotional pain. while the distracted driver walked away with minor injuries.

This tragedy is not unique; distracted driving kills over 9 people and injures more than 1,153 daily in the U.S. Each victim represents a life cut short or forever altered.

These incidents are preventable and criminal. Imagine a driver juggling while behind the wheel—most would see the danger in that. Yet, using a phone is often just as risky, pulling focus away from the road and impairing reaction times.

The Harsh Truth

Cellphones have made life easier, but they are also contributing to a rising death toll. While many states have enacted laws against texting while driving, loopholes remain, allowing this dangerous behavior to persist. States with strict anti-texting laws report lower rates of distracted driving incidents, yet manufacturers continue to create “hands-free” devices that don’t solve the problem—research shows they can actually increase distraction.

Changing Our Mindset

Why is distracted driving still tolerated? It’s partly due to our attachment to our devices and the way we view distracted drivers. They are often not seen as dangerous as those driving under the influence, despite both posing significant risks. Until we shift our mindset, legislative change will be slow.
There is no safe way to use a device while driving; any distraction can lead to catastrophic outcomes.

Taking Action

Here’s how you can help:

• Put your phone away: Turn it off and stow it in the glove box while driving. If you need to make a call or send a text, find a safe place to pull over.
• Add Drive Focus or Do Not Disturb to your IPhone. This will silence notifications, allow only important calls, and can automatically send text replies to those who message you while you're driving
• Refuse to ride with distracted drivers: Offer to handle their calls or texts instead.
• Spread the message: Use social media to remind friends that “no text, phone call, or selfie is worth a life.” Use #DontDriveDistracted.
• Set boundaries: Let callers know you won’t respond while driving. Change your voicemail to reflect this.
• Be brave enough to intervene: Speak up when you see someone distracted behind the wheel.
• Join the movement: Help raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving with the hashtag #ButNotWhileDriving (#BNWD).

Together, we can protect lives and ensure that what happened to Jacy and her family never happens again.