Distracted driving is a dangerous trend on America’s roads and highways. It includes any activity that diverts attention away from safely driving, including talking on the phone, texting, adjusting the stereo and more.

Most dangerous among them, researchers agree, is texting. Sending or reading text messages takes the driver’s eyes off the road for a full five seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed!

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2016, 3,450 people were killed in distracted driving accidents, while 391,000 were injured. Teens were the largest age group reported in distracted driving crashes.

Aside from having to pay a hefty fine, being ticketed for distracted driving also drives up auto insurance premiums by an average 16%, according to studies. That represents an increase of 7,944% since 2011, when carriers issued a penalty of just 0.2% for those caught texting or talking.

But there are steps you can take to avoid an accident or premium increase, and it starts with avoiding the urge to text and drive.

• Completely turn your phone off.
• Put your phone out of reach (e.g., in a trunk or glove box.)
• If you rely on your phone for music, set it before driving.
• If you must use your phone for navigation, set it before departing.

When you’re behind the wheel, you are in control of your safety and of those around you on the road. Glenn Insurance encourages you to be alert at all times.