It only takes a second. One glance at a phone. One quick reply to a text. One decision that changes everything. At The Kiefer Foundation, we understand the devastating impact of distracted driving because we’ve experienced it firsthand. Behind every statistic is a real person, a real family, and a ripple effect that never truly ends.

Mitchel’s Story: The Heart of Our Mission

On September 19, 2016, Mitchel Kiefer was driving back to Michigan State University after a weekend at home. While on I-96, his car was struck from behind by a driver traveling at 84 miles per hour who was using Snapchat at the time. The impact forced Mitchel’s vehicle across the median, where it was hit by another car. Mitchel was killed instantly.

Mitchel wasn’t just a statistic. He was a son, a brother, a friend, and a young man with immense potential. His tragic death led to the creation of The Kiefer Foundation, launching a nationwide effort to end distracted driving through awareness, policy, and technology.

The Faces Behind the Numbers

Every day in the United States, an average of nine people are killed in crashes reported to involve a distracted driver. However, this number is likely an underestimation. Many distracted driving incidents go unreported, as drivers may not admit to being distracted, and it’s challenging for law enforcement to determine distraction as a cause during crash investigations.

We’ve met families who have lost loved ones due to distracted driving. Parents who never got to say goodbye. Siblings left to grieve milestones that will never come. These stories fuel our commitment — and we share them not to shock you, but to remind you: these are real lives.

Distraction Is a Choice – So Is Driving Focused

Distraction doesn’t just come from cell phones. It includes eating, adjusting the radio, reaching into the backseat, or even being lost in thought. But the truth is, most distractions can be prevented. The choice to Just Drive is always available.

We Can End This Together

At TKF, we believe that storytelling is one of our most powerful tools. When people hear what distracted driving truly takes away, it becomes harder to ignore.

Whether you’ve experienced loss or are simply committed to protecting others on the road, you have the power to make a difference:

• Share Mitchel’s story

• Talk to your family and friends about distraction

• Support hands-free legislation

• Use the Do Not Disturb feature on your phone

• Choose to Just Drive — every time

One second. One choice. That’s all it takes. The next time you’re behind the wheel, remember the faces behind the statistics. Drive for them. Drive for yourself. Just Drive.