A concurrent RESOLUTION

TO DECLARE THE MONTH OF APRIL 2024 AS "DISTRACTED DRIVER AWARENESS MONTH" THROUGHOUT OUR STATE AND TO ENCOURAGE ALL SOUTH CAROLINA CITIZENS TO PRACTICE SAFE DRIVING BEHAVIORS AND PLEDGE TO DRIVE DISTRACTION FREE.

Whereas, 1,093 South Carolinians lost their lives due to motor vehicle crashes in 2022, including 146 motorcyclists; 31 powered cycles, other than motorcycles; 25 pedalcyclists; and 173 pedestrians; and

Whereas, talking on a mobile phone, even when done while it is in "hands free" mode; texting; or programming a dashboard infotainment system or Global Positioning System device diverts drivers' attention away from safe driving and results in physical, manual, and cognitive distraction; and

Whereas, South Carolina continues to have the highest number of fatalities in the United States per miles driven, and all South Carolinians deserve to live and work in safe communities; and

Whereas, the National Safety Council Southeastern Chapter, South Carolina Trucking Association, Palmetto Cycling Coalition, ABATE of South Carolina, and State Farm Insurance Companies work to promote policies, practices, and procedures leading to increased safety, protection, and health in business and industry, in schools and colleges, on roads and highways, and in homes and communities across South Carolina; and

Whereas, spring is a time of year when people begin to log more miles on our roads, and it is therefore imperative to focus attention on motor vehicle safety to prevent injuries, death, and other losses in South Carolina. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, declare the month of April 2024 as "Distracted Driver Awareness Month" throughout our State and encourage all South Carolina citizens to practice safe driving behaviors and pledge to drive distraction free.

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