RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Virginia High School League (VHSL) are proud to announce a new partnership to promote safe driving among Virginia’s teens through the “Buckle Up, Phone Down” campaign.
The initiative encourages two simple, life-saving habits every time drivers get behind the wheel: wear your seat belt and put your phone down. By joining forces, VHSL and DMV will amplify this important safety message to thousands of students, athletes, families and high school sports fans at state athletic competitions across the Commonwealth.
“Almost every crash is preventable, and small actions—like buckling up and putting your phone away—save lives,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “We are excited to team up with VHSL to reach young drivers where they are: in their schools, at games, and in their communities. Together, we can build a culture of safety that lasts a lifetime.”
As the governing body for high school athletics and activities in Virginia, the VHSL serves its 319 member schools and hundreds of thousands of student participants each year. Through its statewide platform, VHSL provides an opportunity to promote positive behaviors, teamwork, and leadership, making it an ideal partner in reinforcing safe driving habits that protect students and their communities.
“High school students are at a critical age when it comes to learning and practicing safe driving habits,” said VHSL Executive Director Ty Gafford. “By partnering with the DMV, we can use the reach of high school athletics and activities to reinforce the ‘Buckle Up, Phone Down’ message and help keep our students safe on and off the road.”
Motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of death for teens in the United States, and distracted driving is a major contributor, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Studies show seat belts reduce the risk of fatal injury in a crash by nearly 45%, yet young drivers are among the least likely to buckle up. The “Buckle Up, Phone Down” campaign, created by safety partner DRIVE SMART Virginia, directly addresses these risks by reminding drivers of all ages to make safety their top priority.
As part of the partnership, the “Buckle Up, Phone Down” message will be featured at VHSL events throughout the school year, on promotional materials, and across digital and social media platforms. Students and schools will also be encouraged to take the “Buckle Up, Phone Down” pledge, committing to safe driving habits and encouraging their peers to do the same.