Pediatric emergency physician Dr. Charles Nozicka in the Trauma Center at Advocate Condell Medical Center has treated many victims in car crashes as a result from distracted drivers.

He calls it heartbreaking to see the devastating results, especially with teens and children. Summer now poses an even deeper threat to all drivers from the roads being so crowded.

“As an emergency physician and father of four, the issue of distracted driving has been a key component of my professional and parenting practice,” said Nozicka. “Life does not supply our teen drivers with a ‘reset button.’ Studies have shown that distracted driving is as dangerous as driving while intoxicated.”

The U.S. Department of Transportation says 5,474 people were killed on U.S. roadways in 2009, and about 448,000 were injured from distracted driving.

The DOT also states that the main proportion of distracted drivers was those under age 20. Apparently, 16 percent of all drivers who were younger than age 20 were involved in fatal crashes and have been distracted while driving.

The agency states that there are three main types of driving distractions, in which you first take your eyes off the road, then your hands, and then your mind. Texting combines all three making it a dangerous thing to do.

“We must adopt a no tolerance attitude on this issue,” said Nozicka “We have to pay attention to the task at hand. Put the cell phone down. Stop texting and driving. One accident can change a life forever.”

Nozicka says that a statewide campaign is beginning which will raise awareness of the dangers of distracted driving.

“I urge all drivers and parents of drivers to visit the site to learn they can help raise awareness,” Nozicka said.