Governor Ayotte Emphasizes Importance of Education and Awareness on Distracted Driving

CONCORD, NH - Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte joined students and faculty at Raymond High School for an education event on Distracted Driving Awareness Month, which is recognized every April, alongside highway safety officials and local leaders.

"Distracted driving crashes are completely preventable, and they can have tragic consequences," said Governor Ayotte. "I was glad to join students at Raymond High School today to raise awareness of the dangers of distracted driving and talk about how we can all do our part to keep each other safe on our roads. My message to students today and to all Granite Staters is this: put your phone down, pay attention, and drive safe."

Representatives from the New Hampshire State Police Office of Highway Safety, the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Raymond Police Department educated students on the dangers and consequences of distracted driving. Students also heard from Kyle Simpson, a father who lost his eight-year-old son, Gabriel, in a crash caused by a distracted driver.

Following the presentation from highway safety officials, the Governor participated in a panel discussion with students, emphasizing that every driver on the roads is responsible for keeping themselves and others safe by avoiding distractions while driving. Governor Ayotte also encouraged students to set the example for their peers and speak up when someone they are riding with is using a phone or other distractions behind the wheel.