As someone who works closely with our community safety partners—Zero Fatalities, Safe Routes to School, law enforcement, and local leaders—I see the shared commitment to making our roads safer for everyone. Whether you’re driving across town, dropping off kids at school, or commuting to work, how you drive directly affects your life and the lives of your passengers and those you share the road with.
Besides buckling up every time you get behind the wheel, here are a few reminders for driving responsibly:
Focus on driving, not multitasking
Using devices, reaching for things, even intense conversations can cause fatal delays in reaction time. Put the
phone down; Utah law prohibits texting, dialing, or browsing on your cell phone. You can talk on your phone,
but voice activation and hands-free options are advised. Let passengers handle calls, music, and getting directions.
Stay alert, aware, and patient
Check your mirrors and scan your surroundings frequently. Anticipate possible hazards (defensive driving) and expect the unexpected, such as distracted walkers, children, and animals.
- Look twice at crosswalks and intersections
- Always yield to pedestrians
- Give cyclists at least 3 feet of space
- Drive slower in neighborhoods and school zones
- Slow down in bad weather or poor visibility
- Let others merge
- Don’t tailgate or retaliate
- Stay out of truck blind spots
Don’t drive impaired
Besides being distracted, driving while tired is as dangerous as being drunk. The same goes for medications (whether over-the-counter or prescription) that can make you sleepy or unfocused. Get enough sleep before long trips. Avoid driving
late at night or during your normal sleep hours. Switch drivers if you’re feeling tired or pull over in a safe place if you feel drowsy.
Put kids first, every time
Children often rely on adults to keep them safe. Make sure all kids in the car are buckled up in appropriate seat belts, car seats, or boosters before the car moves. You can make sure your child car seats are installed correctly by scheduling a free
car seat check at swuhealth.gov/carseats.
When you drive with intention, patience, and awareness, you’re not just following the rules—you’re protecting your loved ones and those around you. You’re also setting an example for the next generation of drivers by your attitudes and habits behind the wheel. Help make our roads safer for everyone!
This article originally appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of HEALTH Magazine.