Don’t let that text be the death of you: #PracticeSafeText

You’ve done it! You did the work and passed the test and nothing is more important than your ticket to drive - your driver’s license. But it’s time for a quick reality check. With distracting driving laws in effect across the country and provinces increasing penalties, the need has never been higher to discourage distracted driving near the tracks and highway-railway crossings. The usual culprit is also your faithful sidekick - your cellphone. Identifying where and when it is appropriate to text is the trick to staying safe behind the wheel and near the tracks (hint: never behind the wheel of a car!).

You wouldn’t text here

It’s National Teen Driver Safety Week (#NTDSW), and our friends at Parachute Canada have developed an awesome campaign called #PracticeSafeText to educate new drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and how to stay safe behind the wheel and near the tracks. . Want to know what we’re talking about? Check it out: [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ypTprjVZrA[/youtube]

DON’T let that text end your life

Remember, as a new driver it is your responsibility to not only be safe behind the wheel and but also near the tracks. If you‘re not sure about what we’re talking about, Operation Lifesaver has you covered.

• Check out our site. It is loaded with easy-to-use resources that are great to share with your buddies when you’re hanging out, and articles that support the dangers of texting and driving near the tracks.
• Bookmark the site: traintodrive.net, which has been designed by Operation Lifesaver to help newly licensed drivers, like yourself, to understand and navigate the best way to approach highway-railway crossings.

If you still want more proof, play this in-your-face video, which nails the dangers of distracted driving.  You won’t be able to turn away. Trust us. [vimeo]http://vimeo.com/14086349[/vimeo]

DO take the pledge to #practicesafetext

This week, take the pledge to #practicesafetext on your Instagram, Facebook and Twitter feed and tell your friends to do the same. Remember, the next time you get in the driver’s seat, ready for a new adventure with your buds, keep your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel, and put your cellphone away. Remember—that text can wait. Always: Look, Listen, Live!