Pay attention: States are increasing their distracted driving efforts

Distracted driving is an increasing problem as more people have smart phones and want to be connected at all times—even while driving. However, for the past three years states have been working to pass and enforce distraction laws while increasing education and awareness about the dangers. But there is still more work to be done.

The Governor's Highway Safety Association (GHSA) has released its second look at how states are dealing with the issue of distracted driving and found that 39 states, plus Washington, D.C., say the issue is a priority. That marks an increase of 45 percent from 28 states in 2010. Currently, 47 states have a law against texting while driving, a similar 45-percent increase in three years.

Learn more about staying safe behind the wheel in our guide to distracted driving and teen car safety.

States are actively enforcing these laws, but the police are challenged by variations in how the laws are applied. For instance, some states have age-related restrictions and in some, distraction is a secondary, not a primary, law, which means an officer must find another offense first to pull over a driver for texting. (Read: "Tech aids to prevent distraction.")