One out of every four motor vehicle crashes is the result of driver distractions ad inattentive driving, according to DuPage County Sheriff John Zaruba.

A new driver education program — the Distracted Driver Program — is being created to help make drivers more aware of the issue and encourage safe driving habits.

Zaruba announced Tuesday, June 9, the creation of a video that will be distributed by the Community Research Unit of the sheriff’s department to drivers education classes throughout DuPage County that demonstrate some of the habits that can make a driver a dangerous driver, Zaruba said.

“Distracted driving is not just related to cell phone use or texting while driving. If you have ever changed a radio station, ate, drank, or reached for something while driving you have been a distracted driver,” Zaruba said.

“It is my hope that based on education and heightened awareness  drivers will consider the consequences of distracted driving,” Zaruba said.

Zaruba said the program is consistent with recent legislation enacted by the general assembly making it illegal to text or e-mail while driving, and to use a cellular telephone while driving in a school zone.

The video also will be available on the sheriff’s Web site at dupage.org/sheriff, and on You Tube.

For information call the sheriff’s office at (630) 407-2317.