Public Service Announcements (PSAs) are free advertisements created by the media to send out public safety and health messages. From anti-drug and anti-drunk driving campaigns to PSAs regarding balanced diets and lifestyles, these announcements remind us to be safe and healthy. In addition, PSAs are used to increase the public’s awareness about the hazards of distracted driving. According to www.distraction.gov, in 2014 over 400,000 people were injured and 3,000 people were killed in vehicle crashes due to distracted driving. Distracted driving has become a fatal threat to the population, and PSAs may be a tool to prevent these incidents. On the contrary, some feel PSAs don’t lower the chances of these catastrophes. PSAs are essential for the …show more content…
A study on www.ncjrs.gov was submitted to the U.S Department of Justice detailing the effects of these types of PSAs. In the study, it was stated that after reviewing the effectiveness of hundreds of mass campaigns focused on hazardous behavior, it was proven they do help the public. This was published in Lancet, a medical journal, in …show more content…
A specific tool in use, distributed in Wisconsin, is provided in the Appendix and serves as an excellent sample. Opportunities also exist for placement of the message in maps and on variable message signs. (https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/238779.pdf) Additionally, it is said that if states develop “Highway Safety Strategic Plans” that are integrated with PSAs and handouts can be used as an education tool. Specifically, if it promotes the “Slow Down – Move Over” PSA program it can help local drivers. The “Slow Down – Move Over” PSA was shown to help 84% of participants in safe driving study. The participants reporting that viewing the video reminded them to slow down. This study has shown proof that distracted driving PSAs are successful at raising awareness. They are a critical way to lessen distracted driving incidents. Even brochures and signs were shown to push the importance of staying focused on the road. PSAs are a vital piece in today’s fight against lethal