The Chile he threw one awareness campaign innovative to combat the distracted driving caused by cell phone usea problem that accounts for a third of fatalities in the country. The project, called Social Wreathsis inspired by the “animitas”, road memorials decorated with flowers, traditionally used to remember the victims of accidents.
The initiative transforms these floral wreaths in popular app logos such as Instagram, WhatsApp and TikTok, symbols associated with cell phone use while driving. “Social Wreaths” aims to jolt drivers emotionally, establishing a strong link between distracted driving and road tragedies.
The objective is to raise awareness through a visual and symbolic approach, which leverages both Chilean cultural tradition and modernity. The campaign was launched during a busy weekend and led to a 17% reduction in victims compared to the previous year, demonstrating the effectiveness of the message.
In Italy, stricter penalties for cell phone use with the new Highway Code
In Italy, also the new Highway Code pays particular attention to the problem of cell phone use while driving. The rules, which recently came into force, provide for very high fines: from 250 to 1,000 euros, with license suspension for repeat offenders or in case of accidents caused by the use of the telephone. This hard line reflects the severity of the problem and aligns with initiatives such as those in Chile, highlighting the need for concrete action to improve road safety.
Another crucial point of the Code concerns dangerous behavior linked to other types of distraction. In addition to the use of the telephone, the penalties for driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. The license can be suspended or revoked immediately, without further investigations, for those who test positive.
While Chile uses flower garlands to highlight dangers, the new Italian Code therefore aims to adopt a more rigorous approach, combining prevention and severe punishments. Two different strategies but which demonstrate that the fight against risky driving behavior is one global priority in the hope that both can help save lives.
Raising awareness remains fundamental, especially in an era in which technology is increasingly present, but the message is clear: getting distracted while driving can cost you dearly, both in economic terms and, above all, in terms of human lives.
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