To raise awareness of the dangers of texting while driving Honda has launched a new social media program aligned with April’s Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

The new “Thumbs Up” (#thumbsup) social media campaign aims to reach young drivers through usage of the emoticons and a video “On my way”. In addition, Honda has initiated a Hispanic-focused “Hands on the Wheel” campaign with two videos, “World’s Fastest Texter” and “Mom». On April 13, IndyCar driver Carlos Muñoz, from the Honda-sponsored Andretti team, visited the Honda’s Fan Village booth during the Long Beach Grand Prix race weekend to share his view of the texting and driving problem.

Emoticons are widely used in messages millenials write to each other and Honda integrates them on its social platforms providing tips on ways how to stay focused while driving. On the website users can download a mobile wallpaper and banners which remind young people not to text and drive.

“Honda’s “Thumbs Up” campaign is designed to resonate with a diverse group of younger drivers to raise awareness of the perils of texting while driving,” said Jeff Conrad, Honda division senior vice president and general manager. “Honda is deeply concerned about the safety of all of our customers and we remain committed to enhancing the safety for all of those on the road.”