MEDIA ALERT
What: Buckle Up Phone Down Day
Who: Northwest Missouri Media
When: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, available from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: By phone or video conference
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – Distracted driving is the leading cause of crashes in Missouri and the United States. In 2021 alone, this dangerous activity claimed the lives of 71 Missourians, but it widely underreported. Of the more than 500 fatalities statewide on Missouri roadways, 61% were unbuckled. One death is too many - especially if they are preventable.
On Wednesday, Oct. 25, the Missouri Department of Transportation and the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety are asking people to take the Buckle Up Phone Down Challenge during the seventh annual BUPD Day. The challenge is simple: when you get into any vehicle, buckle up your safety belt. If you are a driver, put the cellphone down. Every trip. Every time. Missourians can take the BUPD challenge at modot.org or http://buckleupphonedown.com/.
MoDOT Area Engineers will be available to speak about the importance of buckling up and putting down phones and outreach efforts across Northwest Missouri. To schedule an interview contact NW District Communications at 816-901-4529.