FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 30, 2024) – Team Kentucky and Gov. Andy Beshear are calling on all Kentuckians to take two simple actions to make highways safer for everyone as the state recognizes the second inaugural ‘Buckle Up, Phone Down Day’ Oct. 30.

“Every time we get behind the wheel, we take on the responsibility to protect ourselves and those around us,” said Gov. Beshear. “Buckling up and putting the phone down are practical ways to keep everyone safe and avoid losing more lives on our roads.”

Over the past decade, distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of vehicle crashes on our nation’s roads. According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety, each year in Kentucky, distracted driving results in more than 40,000 crashes, more than 11,000 injuries and more than 150 deaths.

“We’re reminding drivers that even a moment of distraction or not buckling up can change someone’s life forever,” said Secretary Jim Gray. “By staying focused and always wearing a seat belt, we can help prevent tragedies on our roads.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while anything that takes a driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel or mind off the task of driving is a hazard, texting and using a phone while driving is especially risky because it combines all three types of distraction – visual, manual and cognitive.

“We’re reminding motorists that even the most attentive drivers can still be involved in a crash caused by others,” said Sec. Gray. “The best defense for you and your loved ones is to always be buckled up.”

According to the NHTSA, wearing a seat belt gives motorists the best chance of preventing injury or death if involved in a crash. Properly fastened seat belts contact the strongest parts of the body, such as the chest, hips and shoulders. A seat belt spreads the force of a crash over a wide area of the body, putting less stress on any one part, and allows the body to slow down with the crash, extending the time when the crash forces are felt by the occupant.

According to KOHS, each year in Kentucky, nearly half of those killed in motor vehicles are not wearing a seat belt.

The Buckle Up/Phone Down campaign was created in Missouri in 2017 and was adopted in Kentucky in 2019. Gov. Beshear has previously declared a proclamation for ‘Buckle Up, Phone Down Day’ in 2023.

Visit bupdky.com to learn more and to download an original cell phone ringtone.

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Editors note:  Radio spots, ringtone and videos may be downloaded at bupdky.com

The 2024 Buckle Up Phone Day proclamation is available here.