Distracted driving has become one of the greatest dangers on Roanoke’s streets. Distracted driving crashes in Roanoke City have increased by more than 60% in the last five years, with a distraction involved in nearly a quarter of all crashes in 2021. To address this growing threat, the City of Roanoke is launching the Focused Driving, Safe Arriving campaign this summer — a community-wide effort to encourage safer driving habits and save lives.
“We want to encourage drivers and passengers to take steps to reduce distractions while in a vehicle,” said Rob Issem, Complete Streets & Vision Zero coordinator. “Just a little proactive planning before getting in the car can save lives.”
The 2025 campaign will run from June 2 to July 13, and messaging is popping up around the city to encourage drivers to focus on the road.
There are multiple ways for Roanokers to support the campaign:
Business owners and community partners can support the campaign by placing Focused Driving, Safe Arriving posters at employee entrances and distraction-free reminders in parking areas.
Drivers can take the Focused Driving, Safe Arriving campaign pledge to disconnect from distraction while driving.
Artists of any age can submit original artwork promoting the campaign message to be transformed into one of 10 vinyl wraps that will be installed on traffic signal cabinets across the city.
All residents can sign up for the Traffic Safety Campaign email list to receive updates and learn additional ways to get involved.
Additional information about the Focused Driving, Safe Arriving campaign is available online at: RoanokeVA.gov/FocusedDriving.
