U.S. Department of Transportation Releases New “Faces of Distracted Driving” Video

Gina Harris of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Remembers Her 19-Year-Old Daughter, Brittanie

WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today released the latest video in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s “Faces of Distracted Driving” series, featuring the story of Brittanie Montgomery, from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

WATCH: “Brittanie Montgomery, 19” – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUWs1jGcpMo

At 19 years old, Brittanie Montgomery was a member of the Hornets Honeybees dance team and studied childhood development as a sophomore at the University of Central Oklahoma.  On December 21, 2006, she was killed when she lost control of her vehicle, crossed four lanes of traffic, and was struck by an oncoming car.  She was talking on her cell phone with a friend at the time of the crash.

“Brittanie Montgomery was a talented young woman who was beloved by her family and community.  Her story proves that even a single phone call from behind the wheel can have devastating consequences,” said Secretary LaHood.  “I hope all drivers will remember to keep their eyes on the road, their hands on the wheel, and their cell phones in the glove compartment.”

"Everyone who had a chance to meet Brittanie knew about her dreams for the future and knew she'd accomplish every one of them.  But just one phone call ended her life," said her mother, Gina Harris.  "I hope that sharing my daughter's story will help open drivers' eyes to the dangers of cell phone use behind the wheel."

“Faces of Distracted Driving” is a video series that raises awareness about the potentially tragic consequences of texting and cell phone use while driving by sharing the stories of families who have been affected by this deadly epidemic.  In 2010, over 3,000 people died in crashes related to distracted driving.  The series is part of Secretary LaHood’s ongoing efforts to raise greater awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.

WATCH: “Faces of Distracted Driving” – www.distraction.gov/faces

The U.S. Department of Transportation encourages anyone who would like to share their distracted driving experiences to email: faces@distraction.gov.

To learn more about USDOT’s efforts to stop distracted driving, please visit www.distraction.gov.