It’s not uncommon for American drivers to witness close calls, erratic driving and even deadly crashes caused by motorists trying to operate a vehicle while looking down with a mobile device in their hand.

Nationwide Insurance CEO Kirt Walker today announced that his company is advocating for state lawmakers across the country to enact hands-free legislation allowing drivers to only use hands-free mobile phone technology while operating a motor vehicle.

The intent is to curb crashes caused by drivers distracted by their mobile devices.

“The National Safety Council tells us that 1 in 4 crashes are due to mobile phone usage while driving. With a recent average of 37,000 deaths per year on our roadways, countless lives could have been saved and many more serious, life-changing injuries prevented if drivers’ attitudes were changed about driving while holding a mobile device,” said Walker.

“We feel a moral imperative to create a mindset where distracted driving is viewed just as culturally unacceptable and undesirable as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”