CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Distracted driving killed 3,275 people across the United States in 2023, only a slight decrease from the year before, according to new federal data analyzed by driver education platform Zutobi.
The figure accounts for 8% of all fatal crashes nationwide, underscoring what safety advocates say remains one of the most persistent dangers on American roads as Distracted Driving Awareness Month begins in April.
New Mexico ranked as the worst state for distracted driving fatalities for the fourth straight year, with 37% of its fatal crashes involving distraction. Louisiana and Kansas followed, with Hawaii and New Jersey rounding out the top five.
Younger drivers remain the most at-risk group, with those aged 15–20 showing the highest distraction rates. While smartphones are often the focus of public awareness campaigns, researchers note that passengers, in-car entertainment systems, eating, and even daydreaming are also major contributors.
“Distracted driving isn’t just about phones anymore,” said Zutobi co-founder Lucas Waldenback. “It’s about how comfortable we’ve become multitasking in situations where full attention is critical.”
Safety experts recommend limiting phone notifications before driving, setting GPS routes in advance, and avoiding eating or adjusting controls while behind the wheel.
The full study can be seen here.