The US Department of Transport (USDOT) has released the Blueprint for Ending Distracted Driving, a strategy to reduce the use of mobile phones while on the road.
The strategy outlines concrete steps that can help stakeholders around the country, from lawmakers and safety organisations to families and younger drivers, reduce the many risks posed by driving while unfocused.
Speaking at the launch, US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said that distracted driving is an epidemic.
"While we've made progress in the past three years by raising awareness about this risky behaviour, the simple fact is people are continuing to be killed and injured, and we can put an end to it," LaHood added.
"Personal responsibility for putting down that cell phone is a good first step, but we need everyone to do their part, whether it's helping pass strong laws, educating our youngest and most vulnerable drivers, or starting their own campaign to end distracted driving."
The Blueprint for Ending Distracted Driving will partner with driver education professionals to educate inexperienced drivers about the risks and dangers involved.
The plan will also encourage California, Delaware and the remaining 11 states to enact and enforce the strategy, as well as challenge the auto industry to follow the guidelines, while designing new technology to reduce potential distractions.
USDOT will provide $2.4m of federal support to California and Delaware to expand the department's Phone in One Hand, Ticket in the Other pilot enforcement campaign.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) administrator David Strickland said the agency knows from the success of national efforts like Click It or Ticket that combining good laws with effective enforcement, and a strong public education campaign can and does change unsafe driving behaviour.
"Now, along with two great state partners, we're using this proven formula to help tackle distracted driving," Strickland added.
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