The Kansas Traffic Resource Office says Take the challenge. On Wednesday, Oct. 29, let’s all Buckle Up and put our Phones Down when we drive. Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes in the United States. AAA reports that texting increases the chances of a car crash by 50%. According to NHTSA, if you buckle up in the front seat of a passenger car, you can reduce your risk of fatal injury by 45% and moderate to critical injury by 50%. If you buckle up in a light truck, you can reduce your risk of fatal injury by 60% and moderate to critical injury by 65%.