A concurrent RESOLUTION

 

to declare the month of april 2023 as "distracted driver awareness month".

 

Whereas, 1,081 South Carolinians lost their lives due to motor vehicle crashes in 2022, including 143 motorcyclists, 23 powered cycles other than motorcycles, 26 pedalcyclists, and 170 pedestrians; and

 

Whereas, talking on a mobile phone even in hands-free mode, texting, programming your dashboard infotainment system or GPS device can divert your attention away from driving and result in physical, manual, and cognitive distraction; and

 

Whereas, South Carolina continues to have the highest number of fatalities in the United States per miles driven, and all South Carolinians deserve to live and work in safe communities; and

 

Whereas, the National Safety Council Southeastern Chapter, South Carolina Trucking Association, Palmetto Cycling Coalition, ABATE of South Carolina, and State Farm work to promote policies, practices, and procedures leading to increased safety, protection, and health in business and industry, in schools and colleges, on roads and highways, and in homes and communities in South Carolina; and

 

Whereas, spring is a time when people begin to log more miles on the road and it is imperative to focus attention on motor vehicle safety to prevent injuries, death, and loss in South Carolina.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

 

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, declare the month of April 2023 as "Distracted Driver Awareness Month" throughout the State and encourage all citizens of South Carolina to practice safe driving behaviors and pledge to drive distraction free.

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