Drivers urged to buckle up, put phones down

Oct. 28, 2026, was Buckle Up Phone Down Day in Wisconsin. The day focuses on two simple habits that can reduce the number of crashes and provide a safer experience for travelers on Wisconsin roadways: wearing a seat belt and putting the phone away while driving.
The annual campaign, led by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and proclaimed by Gov. Tony Evers, brings together law enforcement, emergency responders, schools, businesses, and community groups to promote safer driving.
“Distractions are a major cause of crashes, and many could be prevented if drivers just put their phones down,” said WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman. “Seat belts are one of the best defenses against injury or death in a crash.”

By the numbers
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes in Wisconsin. In 2025, the state recorded 9,049 distracted-driving crashes, which caused 31 deaths and 3,659 injuries. Cell phones are among the most common distractions.

Crashes involving people not wearing seat belts were even deadlier. In 2025, 7,637 such crashes caused 146 deaths and 1,878 injuries. On average, about half of the vehicle occupants killed in Wisconsin crashes aren’t buckled up, according to WisDOT.

What the law says
Wisconsin law bans texting while driving. It also bans using a handheld phone near emergency responders or roadside workers, or in work zones. Drivers with a probationary license or instruction permit face additional restrictions. WisDOT recommends pulling over to a safe spot when a phone call or message can’t wait.
Drivers are also responsible for making sure their passengers buckle up and that children ride in the right car seat or booster seat for their age and size.

Taking the pledge

The day has passed, but drivers can still take the Buckle Up Phone Down pledge at zeroinwisconsin.gov/buckle-up-phone-down. Participants are invited to share a photo of the campaign pose, right thumb up and left thumb down, on social media with the hashtag #BuckleUpPhoneDown. They are also encouraged to challenge friends, family, and coworkers to do the same.
Organizations that want to become campaign partners can find details on the same site.
The Missouri Department of Transportation started Buckle Up Phone Down in 2017. WisDOT launched Wisconsin’s version in 2021, and since then hundreds of residents have taken the pledge and dozens of organizations have signed on as partners.
More information and public service announcements are available at wisconsindot.gov/BUPD.