April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, serving as a reminder that any distraction behind the wheel can have serious consequences. Whether you’re commuting to campus, going to work, or running errands, staying focused on the road is essential every day of the year. Follow these important tips to protect yourself and others.
What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving is anything that diverts your attention from driving. For example:
- Using your phone (texting, calling, GPS, etc.)
- Eating and drinking.
- Reaching for objects inside the vehicle.
- Distracting conversations with passengers.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- 39,254 lives were lost on U.S. roads in 2024.
- Sending or reading a text that takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds, at 55 mph, is like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.
- In 2023, speeding was a contributing factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities.
Vehicle Use at George Mason
To operate university vehicles, you must be an authorized driver.
How to become an authorized driver:
- Read and understand Policy 1411.
- Complete the Driver Acknowledgement Form.
- Submit a Motor Vehicle Request and Release Form.
- Attend Driver Awareness Training.
- Repeat the training every two years.
Vehicle Accidents at George Mason
What to do in case of an accident:
- Stop Immediately: Take all necessary precautions to prevent further accidents.
- Send for help, do not leave the scene: contact Virginia State Police or 911.
- Gather information: Get names and phone numbers of witnesses.
- Fill out an Automobile Loss Notice Form and notify your supervisor.
- Do not: Make a statement to anyone other than your employer, law enforcement officer, or a representative of the Division of Risk Management.
Driver Safety Training
George Mason offers online Driver Safety Training for the university community to increase awareness and reinforce defensive driving techniques.
Access the training here:
- Employees Only: Launch Course
- Spanish Version: Launch Course (Comenzar el Curso)
- Students Only: Click Here
- Contractors & Visitors: Click Here
Take this opportunity to reflect on your driving habits and commit to staying alert and distraction-free every time. Help prevent accidents to keep yourself and others safe on the road.