Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous behaviors motorists engage in these days, and with more and more devices being introduced into modern vehicles, the risks are only increasing. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports drivers using handheld devices behind the wheel are four times more likely to be involved in crashes than those who do not, and texting while driving makes a driver 23 times more likely to be in an accident.

While the dangers of taking focus off the road are clear, only 39 states have passed legislation to make distracted driving a punishable offense. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently released the Blueprint for Ending Distracted Driving, and the first order of business is to get the remaining 11 states on board with enforcing laws that will discourage distracted driving and reduce the number of car accidents.

The initiative will focus on raising awareness of the dangers by improving driver education courses and providing drivers with guidelines on how to prevent distracted driving. LaHood also indicated the agency will work with automakers to create new guidelines for safer use of in-car distractions like infotainment systems and GPS navigation devices.

There are a number of smartphone applications that block phone service when traveling above a certain speed, and may in-car infotainment systems limit their service when the vehicle is in motion. While the dangers of distracted driving are well known, many surveys still show a surprising amount of drivers are engaging in this act.

Paying attention to driving and ignoring distractions can greatly reduce the risk of getting into a car accident, and choosing a vehicle with high safety ratings and good visibility can also help. Those looking for safe, reliable used cars in NJ can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer has a variety of models that are all CARFAX certified.