Robert P. Casey Jr.United States Senator for Pennsylvania

I am privileged to recognize the advocacy work of Pennsylvania native, Jacy Good in her efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.  In May 2008, Jacy and her parents were driving home after her graduation from Muhlenberg College in Allentown.  It was a route that they had driven countless times during Jacy’s four years there.  On this day, however, the Good family was in an accident caused by a distracted driver that resulted in a head on collision with a tractor trailer.

Jacy’s mother and father, Jean and Jay Good, were killed in the accident.  Jacy was in critical condition and spent four months in the hospital.  The accident has left Jacy with permanent injuries, but thankfully she survived.  Over the course of the past two years, Jacy has courageously shared her story and worked to educate the public about the dangers associated with distracted driving.  She has travelled throughout the Commonwealth and the country in efforts to bring further attention to this important issue.  Jacy is working with numerous advocacy groups including Oprah Winfrey’s ‘No Phone Zone’ and is on the board of Focus Driven, an advocacy group for victims of motor vehicle crashes involving drivers using cell phones.  Last week, she joined U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and United Nations Secretary General Ban KiMoon to launch a global initiative against distracted driving.

Not only does Jacy encourage safe driving practices, she also is a vocal advocate for legislation that would prohibit distracted driving.  In the U.S. Senate, I am the cosponsor of two bills that will prohibit texting while driving.  Studies indicate that texting while driving is just as dangerous as driving under the influence.  I commend Jacy for her strength, courage and tireless work.  To honor Jacy and her parents, I encourage all Pennsylvanians to drive safely and educate your loved ones about the risks of distracted driving.

To learn more about the U.S. Government's efforts against Distracted Driving, please visit: http://www.distraction.gov