Distracted driving has become a deadly epidemic on America’s roadways. Fact: 3,154 people were killed in last year and an estimated 424,000 injured in motor vehicle crashes that involved distracted drivers. Our youngest and most inexperienced drivers are most at risk, with 10% of all distracted driving crashes involving drivers under the age of 20. This age group has the largest proportion of drivers who were distracted. Click here for more facts.

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from driving. Distracted driving includes texting, using a cellphone, eating or drinking, talking to passengers, grooming, reading, using a navigational device, watching a video or adjusting a radio, CD player , etc.  The three types of distractions are visual, manual and cognitive. Visual involves taking your eyes off the road, manual consists of taking your hands of the wheel and cognitive involves taking your mind off what you’re doing. This is one reason texting while driving is especially dangerous, as it involves all three types. Sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, which at 55 (miles per hour) is equivalent to driving the length of a football field.

According to the NHTSA website, cell phone use is a major problem. “At any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving, a number that has held steady since 2010,” the website said. “Distracted driving has become a deadly epidemic on America’s roadways.” Spread the word and stay safe!

To become Certified and officially recognized by the various Automakers, Advanced Autobody, Inc. passed the rigorous certification process essential to help ensure a proper and safe repair of the new generation of advanced vehicles. Less than 5 percent of body shops across the nation are able to meet the stringent requirements to become officially certified and recognized. The certified network is made up exclusively of best-in-class collision repair businesses that have met or exceeded the stringent requirements of the Certification program.

The Certification criteria is based upon auto manufacturer requirements. These are critical to ensure the vehicle fit, finish, durability, value and safety following an accident. As new model vehicles are being introduced that use light-weight high strength materials and advanced technology, a proper repair according to manufacturer specification is even more important than ever to ensure the passenger safety and proper performance of the vehicle. Auto manufacturers want to ensure that consumers have the option of Certified Collision Repair wherever they live, work or travel.

“Consumers need the confidence and peace of mind to know their vehicle is repaired by a shop that has what it takes to ensure the vehicle safety. Advanced Autobody, Inc. is officially a Collision Care Provider,” said Scott Biggs, CEO of Assured Performance Collision Care. “They represent the standard by which all other body shops are measured.”

About Assured Performance Collision Care: Assured Performance Collision Care is a non-profit consumer advocacy organization specializing in the automotive collision repair market segment. Assured Performance works with the top automakers to identify, audit and promote collision repair providers that meet best-in-class business standards and the manufacturer’s requirements. Consumers can go to: www.CollisionCare.org or www.autobodylocator.com to find a list of Certified Collision repair providers.