On Wednesday, I was listening to the news as I got ready for work, and I learned that, according to the National Coalition for Safer RoadsExit Disclaimer, Memorial Day weekend is the peak time for motorists to be caught running red lights.

It’s very easy to get distracted when we are behind the wheel. As the Director of a team that promotes using mobile technology (including texting) to support public health, I know that I have a duty to model responsible driving--meaning that I don’t text and drive. And, just last night, I thought to myself, “No matter how tempting, I also shouldn’t eat and participate in a conference call as I am racing to get to my godson’s choral concert!”

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 3,328 people were killed in distraction-affected crashes in 2012. In addition, an estimated 421,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted driver--a 9% increase from the previous year.

On behalf of the HIV.gov team, I encourage you to join me in using technology safely this Memorial Day weekend--and always--by keeping your mind and your eyes on the road. Wishing you a safe and happy healthy weekend!

To learn more, go to Distraction.gov.