Distracted driving puts everyone at risk. It is a primary factor in thousands of vehicle crashes and near-crashes because it takes a driver’s eyes, hands or mental focus away from the road.
In 2024, data showed 936 distracted driving-related crashes in North Dakota. However, because distraction is often difficult to verify at a crash scene, experts believe the actual number of incidents is significantly higher.
North Dakota traffic safety laws are designed to deter dangerous habits. Key regulations include:
- Texting Ban: Composing, reading, or sending electronic messages while driving is illegal for all ages and carries a $100 fine.
- Minor Restrictions: Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any electronic communication device while the vehicle is in motion, including cell phones in hands-free mode.
- General Distracted Driving: Law enforcement can assess a $100 citation if a driver is distracted while committing another traffic violation or causing a crash.
Distraction occurs anytime your attention is diverted from the task of driving. Common dangerous behaviors include:
- Digital Distraction: Texting, scrolling social media or using mobile apps.
- Phone Use: Talking on a phone, even with hands-free technology.
- In-Vehicle Adjustments: Programming GPS navigation or adjusting music.
- Personal Care: Eating, drinking or grooming while driving.
- Passenger Interaction: Engaging with others inside the vehicle.
- Texting is particularly dangerous because it creates a "triple threat": it simultaneously takes your eyes, hands and focus off the road.
Driving deserves your full attention. To prevent crashes and save lives, follow these protocols:
- Put your phone away before driving
- Ask a passenger to handle navigation or messages
- Pull over if you need to use your phone
Take the Buckle Up, Phone Down pledge to commit to distraction-free driving every trip, every time.
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