Buckle Up, Phone Down Campaign Urges Drivers Across Louisiana, Missouri, West Virginia to Reduce Fatalities

Louisiana's Department of Transportation and Development, along with state partners, is actively promoting the "Buckle Up, Phone Down" campaign to reduce fatalities caused by distracted driving and failure to wear seat belts. The campaign, which encourages drivers and passengers to pledge to avoid phone use while driving and always wear seat belts, has gained significant participation from high school students through a video and pledge contest. Officials highlight that distracted driving accounted for 25% of all fatal crashes in Louisiana in 2024, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility in improving road safety. Similar efforts are taking place in other states like Missouri and West Virginia, where officials warn of rising fatal crash numbers and urge motorists to adopt safe driving habits during the holiday season and beyond. These initiatives aim to move closer to zero roadway deaths by fostering a culture of attentiveness and restraint behind the wheel.