Oregon DOT Challenges Drivers to Avoid Using Their Phones Behind the Wheel

Distracted driving is the new drunk driving. Cell phone use while driving is ubiquitous, according to data collected by Zendrive. Is it any wonder that traffic fatalities are on the rise?

Technology exists to lock mobile devices while the user is driving, but the federal government won't mandate its use. Failing meaningful national regulations, states can step up and go beyond PSAs that have proven largely ineffectual.

Jonathan Maus at Bike Portland reports on how Oregon DOT is using "gamification" to cut down on driver distraction:

On its own, Oregon DOT's voluntary app may not have a big impact on distracted driving rates among all drivers in the state. But popularizing this type of technology matters. It might lead to other incentives, like lower insurance rates for people who can prove they don't drive distracted, that could save lives.

More recommended reading today: Urban Milwaukee reports on how local aldermen are trying to shape the city's bus rapid transit plans. And Bipedally posts a cartoon that puts "distracted walking" concerns in perspective.