Watch: Distracted driver nearly hits Kansas Highway Patrol trooper head-on

KANSAS (KSNW) — A distracted driver nearly hit a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper head-on.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Trooper Steve Morris was on patrol in Troop F in south-central Kansas when a distracted driver drove into his lane. He drove onto the grass shoulder as the other vehicle continued into his lane.

As the vehicle drove past Morris, he was able to see that the driver was distracted by a cell phone.

“Being alert and ready to react prevented a head-on collision with a distracted driver,” said the KHP.

Distracted driving is the leading cause of crashes, according to the KHP.

“There are many types of distracted driving, but using a cell phone or other device is one of highest and dangerous distractions in your vehicle,” said the KHP. “Taking your eyes off the roadway makes you more likely to crash, or to have someone crash into you!”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021. Click here for an overview of distracted driving from the NHTSA.