Distractions Delay Reactions

Distractions can take critical seconds away from your reaction time. Learn about the dangers of distraction on roads—and why it matters.

Our Campaign

Distractions Delay Reactions was selected as the U.S. campaign for Re:act 2023. The campaign aims to educate 17–25-year-old road users about the dangers of distractions and change the behaviors they choose.

  • A distraction is anything that takes your attention away from the roads, delaying your reactions. Just seconds of distracted driving could change your life. Here’s how.

    #DistractionsDelayReactions

  • “The odds of a crash double if your eyes are off the road for more than two seconds.”

    —Auto Alliance¹

  • “Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for five seconds. At 55mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.”

    —National Highway Traffic Safety Administration²

  • Drivers can remain distracted for 27 seconds after making a call or changing music.

    —American Automobile Association³

Choose to be Focused

Some of the biggest distractions for young adult road users involve the use of electronics. We can all take easy steps to limit distractions when on the road.

  • Turn off your phone or put it in silent mode.⁴

  • Set a playlist in advance. Use hands-free functions if you must change music.⁵

  • Familiarize and plan your trip ahead of time.⁶

For more information about avoiding distracted driving, please visit these resources:

NHTSA

Take the pledge and commit to safe driving today.

CDC

Find advice on preventing distracted driving, Maryland’s initiatives, and more.

AAA Exchange

Learn more about the risks of distracted driving.

Behind the Campaign

“I am immensely grateful to Re:act for the opportunity to create this campaign. As a part of the target demographic, this experience has emphasized the gravity of distracted driving and its impact on road safety. While researching and developing this campaign, I have also reflected on and re-examined my habits as a road user. As a graphic design student, I have gained valuable experience collaborating with professionals and experts from different disciplines. This campaign has demonstrated that visual design can improve my community and create positive change in the real world.”

—Hailey Ng | Graphic Design Student | University of Maryland, College Park