Campaign launched to curb cell phone use while driving

posted by Michael Hanson

Many national organizations have noted that using a cell phone while driving is a dangerous practice which can lead to more crashes and, consequently, higher auto insurance quotes.

In order to reduce the practice, the Safe Roads Alliance has joined with auto insurance provider Safety Insurance in a public campaign to reduce the practice of using cell phones while driving. Through the Bucks for Hang-Ups program, drivers will be offered cash incentives for hanging up their phones when they are behind the wheel.

"Cell-phone related crashes cause thousands of deaths and serious injuries every year," Jeff Larson, president of Safe Roads Alliance, said. "With Bucks for Hang-Ups, we hope to emphasize the benefits of avoiding cell phone use while driving and make our roads safer."

Through the campaign volunteers will be posted at dangers intersections in Massachusetts. While cars are stopped at the intersection, the volunteers will offer drivers who are using their cell phone $1 to hang up.

According to the Insurance Information Institute there are two main dangers associated with using a cell phone while driving. Along with taking their eyes off the road in order to dial or text, drivers may also get too involved in conversations to be able to focus on driving.