Polly Recognizes National Do Not Disturb While Driving Day

We’ve become inseparable from our smartphones. Every day in every way, we’re absorbed, consumed, delighted, entertained, and thrilled by this pocket-sized, life-transforming tech.

We all know how easy it is to be distracted by them as well, especially while driving. But being on your phone while driving isn’t just a bad habit, it’s one of the fastest ways wreck your ride or worse. Today, on October 19^th, we celebrate National Do Not Disturb While Driving Day to promote awareness and encourage safe driving practices.

The Importance of Being Alert While Driving

Distracted driving is a hugely concerning, but 100% avoidable, trend. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021 alone and was a result of 29% of all car crashes in 2019, which claimed over 10,000 fatalities. Cell phones are the major culprit, with texting and driving being one of the riskiest behaviors. It's crucial to be alert and fully focused on the road when behind the wheel. As we recognize National Do Not Disturb While Driving Day, we ask you to put down the phone or pull over. Whatever it is, it can wait until you’re not driving.

Technology for Safer Driving
Fortunately, the tech itself now provides a solution to the problem it helped create. Most smartphones come equipped with a "Do Not Disturb While Driving" feature that can automatically detect when you're driving and limit notifications to ensure you stay focused on the road. Be sure to turn it on and keep it on.

How Do Not Disturb While Driving Works
The "Do Not Disturb While Driving" feature is easy to set up and use. Users can activate it in their phone's settings or through dedicated apps. USA Today shares how to easily turn on this feature.

Spreading Awareness
Let this National Do Not Disturb While Driving Day serve as a reminder to all of us to be responsible drivers. Take today to remind friends and family how we can help create a safer driving environment for everyone and encourage others to put safety first and use the "Do Not Disturb While Driving" feature!

Together, we can make a difference and save lives!