Distracted Driving Awareness Month Kicks Off in Palm Springs With Emotional Reminder

Distracted Driving Awareness Month officially began today, and in Palm Springs, the Auto Club of Southern California, the California Office of Traffic Safety, and CHP came together at City Hall to launch the “Action Against Distraction” pledge campaign.

Among those speaking was Beverly Shelton—affectionately known as “Grandma Beverly.” Her life was forever changed 16 years ago when her 5-year-old grandson, Zachary, was struck and killed by a distracted driver while walking to his school bus. Zachary would have turned 22 this year.

“It broke me. And it broke my family,” Shelton shared. “There’s still collateral damage today.”

CHP Officer David Torres emphasized that even a one- or two-second distraction behind the wheel can cause irreversible harm. “It could be a life-changing event,” he said.

Nine empty chairs stood in silent tribute to the average nine lives lost daily to distracted driving. A nearby table displayed common distractions—phones, food, and makeup—alongside a memorial table filled with Zachary’s favorite things.

Shelton’s message was powerful: “Behind the wheel, you’re behind the trigger. Know what’s going on around you.”

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