In a week-long attempt to raise awareness for the dangers of distracted driving, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety reported state law enforcement issued 550 citations for texting while driving.

Across Minnesota, 400 law enforcement agencies participated in the effort spanning from April 11-20 to cut down on the number of distracted driving related crashes.

“No one plans to go out in the morning and get in a crash, yet 25 percent of all crashes are related to distracted driving,” DPS Office of Traffic Safety Director Donna Berger said. “We really want to raise the awareness that that short text or phone call … it can change your life forever, and it’s really not worth it.”

According to the DPS, 2013 saw 18,000 crashes caused by distracted driving, which resulted in 68 deaths and more than 8,000 injuries. The DPS said these numbers are the main reason for the extra patrols during this week.

“It’s really not just about the enforcement,” Berger said. “It’s more of the effort to educate motorists and have them understand the issue and consequences around distracted driving.”

Berger said texting while driving is the main cause of crashes related to distracted driving.

Sophomore Jenna Knutson said she thinks texting while driving is dangerous.

“My phone is definitely a distraction,” Knutson said. “I don’t feel safe texting and driving. I think if I’m on the phone, and I’m driving with it in my hand, I’m fine. But if I’m looking down away from the road, that’s distracting for me.”

Texting is one of several activities illegal to perform while driving. Motorists are also not allowed to read books, compose and send emails or access the Internet from any wireless device.

“Too many people think they are invincible,” sophomore Angelo Micciche said. “They think they can get away with texting or reading and never crash. They don’t realize how quick something can happen.”

While not all drivers are guilty of texting while driving, there is more to distracted driving than your phone or radio.

Berger said distracted drivers weave, are not aware of stoplights changing, and drive either too fast or slow for the conditions.

“Distracted driving itself is much more than that. It’s any behavior that is taking your eyes off the road,” Berger said.

Knutson said students’ fast-paced way of life is to blame for the multitasking that takes place behind the wheel.

“We’re always on the move,” Knutson said. “With college, homework, work and everything else, you just don’t feel like you have time to do all those little things … So why not do them in the car?”

While people may be busy, the DPS offered alternatives that make safety a priority.

“If you have someone riding with you, just have them be your designated texter and answering your phone calls,” Berger said. “But you shouldn’t be doing that multitasking while you’re behind the wheel.”

Scott Sikich can be reached at siki3549@stthomas.edu.