To tackle this major problem, the Association of Lithuanian Automobilists  (LAS), with the support of the FIA Road Safety Grant Programme, undertook a media and social advertising campaign urging drivers to use hands-free equipment for phone calls and not to text at all.

The Lithuanian Club launched the educational project “Don’t drive with your eyes shut!” to target future drivers who are not yet fully aware of the dangers caused by using smartphones while driving. For them communication through text messages and constant interaction with everything and everyone through social media has become a standard.

The LAS identified the key issue by conducting surveys among Lithuanian drivers. The alarming results showed that only 26 per cent of drivers in Lithuania were using hands-free equipment in their cars. Furthermore, 21 per cent of respondents admitted reading text messages and emails while driving. The rate was higher among the younger population, especially in the 18-24 age group where it was found to be over 40 per cent, and 25-34, where it was at 33 per cent. Nevertheless, 24 per cent of those interviewed were against stricter penalties for using mobile phones while driving.

During the 24 events that were held and over 15 actions which were taken in collaboration with the national traffic police authorities, the Lithuanian Club distributed 1,800 stickers, 100 t-shirts, 150 caps and 500 quiz and game prizes.

As a result, the number of sanctions recorded in Lithuania fell to 12,000 in 2015.