Road safety officials across the state are renewing their call for increased vigilance behind the wheel as part of the annual Buckle Up Phone Down campaign. The initiative aims to reduce preventable traffic crashes and severe injuries by focusing on two essential driving habits: securing seat belts properly and eliminating mobile phone distractions. Leaders emphasize that simple choices made before starting a vehicle can significantly alter safety outcomes for everyone sharing the road.
Distracted driving remains one of the primary factors contributing to collision statistics each year. Transportation experts note that looking away from the road even for a few seconds drastically decreases reaction time, particularly in high-density areas or construction zones. State regulations strictly restrict handheld device use in vulnerable traffic areas, and driver safety programs continue to urge motorists to find a safe location to park if answering a call or message becomes necessary.
Alongside minimizing distractions, seat belt usage continues to serve as the most effective defense against crash-related injury. Safety statistics indicate that consistent restraint use drastically lowers fatality risks for vehicle occupants across all age groups. Campaign organizers encourage community members, local businesses, and law enforcement agencies to participate actively by taking safety pledges and promoting responsible driving habits within their networks throughout the year.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.
