DRIVER DISTRACTIONS

DISTRACTION IS DEADLY

According to the NHTSA, 3,477 people were killed by distracted driving in 2015. Distracted driving includes anything that can take drivers' eyes or mind away from the task of driving - talking or texting on the phone, eating or drinking, engaging with navigation system, etc. The NHTSA states that texting is the most alarming distraction; sending or reading a text takes drivers' eyes off the road for five seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed. Drivers need to be cognizant of distracted motorists and pedestrians around you while also taking these steps:

• Allowing calls to go to voicemail and ignoring texts

• Avoiding eating, drinking, grooming and smoking

• Pre-programing route on GPS before driving

• Putting reading material out of reach

• Stowing loose objects in a secure, proper place

• Presetting temperature and radio prior to driving

Not only is distracted driving dangerous, even deadly, most states now have laws against texting, talking on a cell phone and other distractions. Further, CTI has agreed to ensure that personnel assigned to provide services under an Agreement with FedEx Ground will not communicate by telephone, texting, email or electronic messaging while the vehicle is in motion or being operated on a roadway. Engaging in such activities will result in termination.