Title
To declare September 19, 2014 to be the National "It Can Wait" Day of Action in Columbus, Ohio to recognize the dangers of texting while driving.
Body
WHEREAS, texting while driving is a dangerous form of distracted driving that not only jeopardizes the safety of drivers, but also that of passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists; and
WHEREAS, at any given daylight moment across the United States, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving, a number that has held steady since 2010; and
WHEREAS, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 3,328 deaths nationwide resulting from distracted driving in 2012 alone; and
WHEREAS, texting while driving remains a widespread problem; nearly 50 percent of commuters text while behind the wheel and more than 40 percent of commuters who text while driving reported the activity as being a habit; and
WHEREAS, "It Can Wait" is a national campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of texting while driving, especially among teens; and
WHEREAS, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbus will be partnering with AT&T on September 18 to kick off their AT&T "It Can Wait" National Day of Action, aimed at promoting safe driving habits; and
WHEREAS, it is important for all residents of Columbus, and the nation, to recognize the dangers of distracted driving and to refrain from texting while at the wheel; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby declare September 19, 2014 to be recognized as the National "It Can Wait" Day of Action in Columbus, Ohio and encourages all Columbus residents to educate themselves and others on the dangers of texting while driving.