Oct. 25, 2023 (Lincoln, Neb.) — Today, Governor Jim Pillen joined the Nebraska Department of Transportation
(NDOT) in encouraging drivers to prioritize roadway safety as Nebraska joins states across the nation in
recognizing National Buckle Up Phone Down Day. Seatbelt usage and distracted driving are two of the top
choices drivers can make to significantly reduce the chances of injuries or death, resulting from a crash. In fact,
wearing a seatbelt reduces the chances of death by 45% in a car and 60% in a truck, according to the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Between 2011 and 2020, over 1,400 Nebraskans had a crash because they were distracted by a mobile device.
Additionally, 77.6% of fatalities on Nebraska roadways in 2020 were reported to have no seat belt use, the
highest in nearly a decade. The observed seat belt usage rate for the State in 2022 fell to below 80% for the first
time since 2014.
Nebraska first launched the Buckle Up Phone Down initiative in 2021 and renewed it in 2023. The focus of the
campaign has been shifted to Nebraska’s youth, our next generation of drivers. NDOT’s Highway Safety Office
have recently partnered with the Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA). The initiative provides NDOT
the opportunity to emphasize the importance of safe driving through strategic partnerships.
“We have always looked to our children, as our future of Nebraska, and we look to continue to support them
growing into future generations,” said Governor Pillen. “Making the right choices – buckling up and putting the
phone down every time you get behind the wheel – sets the example to make the right choice for your children,
our future drivers. Remember our children are watching, they do 100 percent of what we do.”
“As a parent, I understand the significance of leading by example. It’s crucial we take responsibility, buckle up and
minimize distractions,” said NDOT Director Vicki Kramer. “At NDOT, we care deeply about cultivating responsible
future drivers. We are actively investing in safety education initiatives like Buckle Up Phone Down as a way to
draw awareness to the issue and also create personal responsibility. Choosing to prioritize your safety by
something as simple as wearing your seatbelt and avoiding phone usage helps ensure everyone gets home
safely.”
On Oct. 25, Nebraska, together with states across the nation, recognizes National Buckle Up Phone Down
Day and encourages Nebraskans to remember to wear their seatbelt and put the phone down every time they get
into a car.
To learn more about the NDOT’s Buckle Up Phone Down Campaign, visit ndot.info/BUPD.
