Mahaska Health Partnership Warns Against Distracted Driving
Mahaska Health Partnership
MAHASKA COUNTY – It’s that time of year again when drivers know they need to be especially careful while driving due to winter weather. Mahaska Health Partnership Emergency Services reminds that distracted driving can be avoided year round.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 15 people are killed and more that 1,200 people are injured each day as a result of distracted driving. There are three different types of distraction: visual (taking your eyes off the road); manual (taking your hands off the wheel) and cognitive (taking your mind off driving).
“You can help prevent winter driving accidents by checking the forecast and practicing safe driving tips such as slowing down earlier or not using cruise control,” said MHP Emergency Services and Chief Medical Officer Matt Whitis, MD. “But when you make the choice to be a distracted driver, you aren’t just putting yourself at risk; you’re putting other drivers and pedestrians at risk too.”
According to the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), drivers are prohibited from writing, sending or reading text messages while driving, unless the vehicle is at a complete stop off the roadway. The fine for texting and driving is $30 plus any additional court and processing fees associated with the citation.
“We know that we will certainly have weather-related accidents that require Emergency Services to respond, but accidents that result from distracted driving can be avoided,” said Dr. Whitis. “Whether you’re using a cell phone, texting, eating or adjusting your radio, you are not focusing enough on driving.”
Keep the road safe this holiday season and every season by avoiding texting and driving and knowing the risks associated with distracted driving. Remember never to drive in dangerous weather conditions and obey traffic control devices to avoid unnecessary trips to the Emergency Room.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, call 641-672-3240 or visit www.mahaskahealth.org.
