RESOLUTION NO. 210943

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Recognizing October 22, 2021, as Buckle Up, Phone Down day in Kansas City and challenging the City of Kansas City to buckle up and put the phone down.

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WHEREAS, every 24 seconds someone dies in a fatal car accident. Of the millions of Americans are involved in a car accident each year, 4.4 million are injured seriously enough to need medical attention, and 38,000 will lose their life; and

WHEREAS, the United States suffers from a 50% higher rate of accidents of any of the worlds high income countries. In the U.S. car accidents cause approximately $871 billion dollars in damage and $380 million dollars in medical costs; and

WHEREAS, distracted driving significantly increases your risk of causing or being involved in an accident. 9 in 10 people use the phone while driving and 70% of those who drive distracted are 22 years of age and over; and

WHEREAS, when used correctly, wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of fatal injury to front seat passenger car occupants by 45%, and risk of moderate-to-critical injury by 50%. On average, if everyone wore their seatbelt correctly, accident deaths would decrease by approximately 4,000 individuals; and

WHEREAS, the simple act of buckling up and putting the phone down can save your life or the life of your passengers. Buckle Up Phone Down day is a growing movement in the United States as we recognize the importance of roadway safety. However, Missouri is 1 of 2 states with no texting and driving law, and 1 of 8 with no hands free laws; and

WHEREAS, Buckle Up Phone Down day is an annual day focusing on the safety of all motorists, passengers, and pedestrians on Missouri roads NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

That the Mayor and Council hereby recognizes October 22nd as Buckle Up Phone Down day in Kansas City and pledges to drive undistracted and buckled up; and

BE IT FUR...

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