State Farm is urging lawmakers to prioritize safety and address distracted driving in the upcoming Surface Transportation bill. The company says that taking steps to reduce distractions on the road could save thousands of lives and prevent many injuries each year.
The insurer has launched a multi-year strategy aimed at tackling driver distraction. This includes supporting Congressman Kevin Mullin’s legislation, H.R. 3360 — the Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act of 2025, which calls for a study into how in-vehicle technology affects driver distraction and pedestrian safety. State Farm is also advocating for state laws requiring hands-free cell phone use while driving and has introduced the Good Neighbor Auto Safety Champion Awards to recognize those who support stronger traffic safety laws.
A recent State Farm survey found that distracted driving is considered the top roadway safety concern among U.S. licensed drivers aged 18 to 75. More than half of the 1,901 respondents listed it as their main worry, followed by aggressive driving, alcohol-impaired driving, speeding, and running red lights or stop signs.
According to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, distracted drivers are responsible for 29% of all motor vehicle crashes annually in the United States. These incidents result in over 10,000 deaths, about 1.3 million injuries, and damage to approximately 5.6 million vehicles each year. The estimated annual economic cost related to these crashes is close to $100 billion.
Survey results showed that more than 85% of participants agreed that using hand-held cell phones while driving increases both distraction and crash risk. Seventy-eight percent said hands-free use is safer than hand-held use; eighty-one percent supported legislation banning drivers from holding their phones; and seventy percent believed there would be less distraction if such laws were enacted.
The survey also highlighted concerns beyond cell phones: over two-thirds (69%) of respondents said modern vehicle infotainment systems—such as touchscreens controlling music or navigation—are distracting for drivers.
“Together, we can save thousands of lives and prevent hundreds of thousands of avoidable injuries that hurt families and our communities,” according to State Farm’s statement.
