This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

State officials joined Staker Parson Cos. on Thursday to launch a new effort to eliminate distracted driving, especially by use of cell phones.

The new program, "Stop to Talk. Stop to Text," encourages drivers who need to talk or text to find a safe place to stop to carry out their conversation.

Staker Parson has used that for its truck drivers and other employees.

"We aim to extend this safety stewardship from our greatest asset — the employees — to all Utahns by motivating them to avoid distracted driving, particularly from cell phone use, while behind the wheel," said Scott Parson, CEO of Staker Parson.

Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox said, "We implore all Utahns to remember that every distracted driving incident is preventable."

Lee Davidson