The provincial government is recognizing National Safe Driving Week this week, with a simple message: Focusing on the road is not a part-time responsibility.

National Safe Driving Week raises awareness of the dangers of distracted driving and encourages safer, more defensive driving habits.

Transport Canada estimates that distraction – often attributed to cell phone and device use, contributes to 21 per cent of fatal collisions, and 27 per cent of serious injury collisions.

“While drivers may think a quick glance at their phone is harmless, those mere seconds can lead to tragedy”, said Minister of Digital Government and Service NL, Sarah Stoodley.

She reminds drivers of how much can be lost if drivers are careless behind the wheel.