Shared Roadway Responsibility
Safety on our roads is not the job of drivers alone, it belongs to all of us.
About
Shared roadway responsibility recognizes that safety on our roads is not the job of drivers alone; it belongs to all of us. Whether we are behind the wheel, in the passenger seat, riding a bike, crossing the street, or sharing space with micromobility users, our choices directly affect one another.
When we stay focused, speak up, follow the rules designed to protect everyone, and look out for those more vulnerable than ourselves, we create a culture where safety becomes the norm.
At Impact Teen Drivers, shared roadway responsibility means understanding that every action matters, every voice counts, and every person has the power to help prevent crashes and save lives.
Who Shares the Road?
Every person using our roadways plays a role in keeping everyone safe.
Drivers
Behind the wheel of cars, trucks, and all motor vehicles
Passengers
In the vehicle with the power to speak up for safety
Cyclists
Riding bikes and sharing lanes with vehicles
Pedestrians
Walking, crossing streets, and using sidewalks
Micromobility Users
On scooters, e-bikes, skateboards, and other devices
All Road Users
Everyone who shares public roadways
Four Pillars of Shared Roadway Responsibility
How we all contribute to roadway safety
Stay Focused
Distraction is one of the leading causes of crashes. Staying focused means recognizing the different ways attention can be pulled away and making intentional choices to stay engaged with the roadway and the people around us.
Visual Distraction
Taking Your Eyes Off the Roadway
Cognitive Distraction
Mind Off the Roadway
Manual Distraction
Hands Off the Wheel
Auditory Distraction
Ears Not Alert
Speak Up
Speaking up can save lives. When unsafe situations arise, everyone has a role in supporting safer choices and looking out for one another.
In the Vehicle
Whether as a driver or passenger, speaking up matters. Drivers can set expectations for focused, safe behavior, and passengers can speak up when something feels unsafe.
Among Peers
Peers help shape norms. Supporting one another, challenging unsafe behaviors, and reinforcing positive choices help make speaking up for safety expected and respected.
In the Community
Students and community members can bring safety conversations to life by sharing information, hosting safety events, and inviting evidence-based programs into schools and community spaces.
Through Advocacy
Individuals and communities can support policies and education that protect young people, including strong Graduated Driver Licensing laws and roadway safety initiatives.
Follow the Rules
Following proven safety rules helps protect everyone who shares the roadway.
Put Distractions Away
Phones and other distractions take attention off the roadway. Staying focused helps prevent crashes.
Buckle Up Every Ride
Seat belts protect everyone, every time, in every seat.
Drive at a Safe Speed
Driving at a safe speed for conditions gives everyone more time to react.
Follow GDL Laws
Graduated Driver Licensing laws help protect new drivers as they gain experience.
Look Out for Vulnerable Road Users
Not everyone on the roadway has the same level of protection. Shared roadway responsibility means those with more power take greater care.
Drivers Carry Greater Responsibility
Drivers control vehicles that can cause serious harm. Slowing down, yielding, and giving space help protect others.
People Riding or Rolling Watch for Pedestrians
Bicyclists and micromobility users slow down, yield, and communicate clearly in shared spaces.
Everyone Looks Out for Those Who Need More Time
Children, older adults, and people with disabilities may need extra space and patience to travel safely.
Creating a Culture of Safety
When we look out for one another, safer roads become the norm.
Every
Action Matters
Small, intentional choices, such as staying focused, following the rules, and speaking up, help prevent injuries and save lives.
Every
Voice Counts
Whether you are a driver, passenger, parent, or pedestrian, speaking up for safety helps shape norms and influence safer behavior.
Every
Person Can Help
Everyone has a role in creating safer roads. Daily choices and supportive actions help protect others and reduce risk.
