WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 9, 2019) – Farm Bureau Financial Services and the Iowa State Patrol are teaming up to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and promote safe driving behaviors across the state. This announcement comes at the start of Distracted Driving Awareness Month (April).
As part of their efforts, they have released the first video as part of the series, “Drive Smart with Sgt. Ludwig,” discussing distracted driving statistics and educating Iowans how to stay safe while behind the wheel.
According to the National Safety Council, nine people die and 100 are injured every day from distracted driving accidents in America. Right here in Iowa, the latest Iowa Department of Transportation statistics show that distraction by use of a phone or other device resulted in 1,207 crashes in in 2017.
Farm Bureau Financial Services, based in West Des Moines, has long been a proponent of safe driving education. Teaming up with the Iowa State Patrol to combat distracted driving and other driver safety issues this April and beyond is a top priority for the company.
“Joining together allows for us to amplify our commitment to safety,” said Nancy Wiles, Marketing Communications Vice President, Farm Bureau Financial Services. “Distractions are everywhere, from fiddling with the radio to ringing phones. We hope Iowans will commit to focusing on the road ahead by joining the thousands of drivers vowing to avoid distractions on the road.”
As a State Trooper, Sgt. Ludwig has had to deal with the aftermath of distracted driving on Iowa’s roads.
“As we enter the seasons of warmer weather, more vehicles and motorcycles will take to the roadways,” said Sgt. Ludwig. “This means we all must stay focused on driving and practice safe habits.”
Iowa drivers are encouraged to visit Farm Bureau Financial Services website to get more tips on safe driving, as well as take a Safe Driving Quiz and commit to the Safe Driving Pledge. View the first “Drive Smart with Sgt. Ludwig” video here.