Distracted Driving

Distracted Driving Awareness Month

A distracted driving ticket could cost more than just the fine, insurers say

In recognition of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, Washington, Oregon and Idaho law enforcement agencies are ramping up efforts to keep roadways safe by deploying high-visibility enforcement patrols in April. The extra patrols specifically look for and pull over those distracted by cell phones while driving to help shine a spotlight on the deadly and costly behavior of distracted driving.

In 2023, distracted driving claimed 3,275 lives across the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The widespread impact of distracted driving continues to be a critical concern nationwide.

At the state level, the issue is just as alarming. In 2024 alone, the Washington State Patrol stopped more than 28,000 drivers for distracted driving. Meanwhile, in Oregon, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) reported 26,264 crashes involving distracted drivers between 2017 to 2021. These incidents resulted in 194 fatalities and 24,264 injuries. During that same time, 60,519 drivers in Oregon were convicted of a distracted driving offense. 

Idaho also experienced the impact of distracted driving. In 2023, the Idaho Transportation Department reported 4,757 crashes involving distracted drivers, including 48 fatalities.  

Distracted driving is broadly defined as activities that take a driver’s attention off the road. Washington, Oregon and Idaho have enacted distracted driving laws in recent years that include higher fines and tougher restrictions on cell phone use while behind the wheel along with violations for other distractions while driving, such as eating, reading or grooming. But keep in mind that a distracted driving ticket could cost more than just the fine.

Besides being deadly, crashes caused by distracted driving can have an impact on insurance rates as well. Distracted driving infractions are included in state driving records, which are available to insurance companies. More insurers now report that a distracted driving infraction on your record could increase what you pay for auto insurance, in some cases by as much as 20 percent or more.

Whether your insurance premium will be affected by a citation for distracted driving – and what that impact could be – will vary, depending on your insurance company and your policy, so It’s a good idea to check with your insurance company or agent to find out more about those potential consequences.

An even better plan, however, is to avoid the ticket or the crash altogether. When you’re driving, keep your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road, and your mind on your driving.

For more information about Distracted Driving Awareness Month, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website. For more information about distracted driving or auto insurance, contact NW Insurance Council at 800-664-4942 or visit www.nwinsurance.org.