CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — "Distracted driving crashes are entirely preventable if people just stop using their cell phones," said Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias.

This week kicks off National Teen Driver Safety Week.

"Distracted Driving has become the new Drunk Driving"; campaign combating distracted driving amongst teens

Giannoulias has announced he is launching a new multi-faceted approach to combat the distracted driving epidemic.

"Our first step is requiring teens to watch a video explaining the consequences of distracted driving when they apply for a learner's permit, and before they receive their driver's license," said Giannoulias during a news conference at the University of Illinois campus on Tuesday.

This video will be a requirement before new drivers get on the road, with the hope of leaving a lasting memory of what could happen as soon as you take your eyes off the road. 

The video is still in production, but Giannoulias said it will be released in January statewide.

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