'X the TXT': Allstate Encourages Metro Detroiters to Pledge Not to Text and Drive

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Nov. 24, 2009 -- Car crashes are the No. 1 killer of American teens, with nearly 5,000 teens killed annually - and the holiday season is one of the deadliest times for teen drivers. The primary cause of fatal teen crashes is driver error (77 percent) and distractions.

To help save teen lives, Allstate Insurance encourages teens and parents to "X the TXT" this holiday season by pledging not to text and drive. On Sunday, Nov. 29, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Palace of Auburn Hills, Detroit Pistons fans will have the opportunity to make a public pledge by stamping their thumb print on a banner traveling across the country*.

WHAT: A pledge banner featuring thumb prints from teens and parents

        across the country.  Metro Detroit teens and parents will join
        thousands this season, pledging to "X the TXT: Thumbs Up to the
        Safest Holiday Ever."

        Texting is one of the most dangerous distractions facing teens
        today. According to a recent Allstate Foundation study, 82
        percent of teen drivers claim to use cell phones while driving,
        and 49 percent admit to being extremely distracted by texting
        and instant messaging while driving.

        For a complete list of tour cities, tour schedule, and to
        download the family pledge, please visit
        www.facebook.com/thumbsuppledge.

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009 - from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Before the Detroit Pistons vs. Atlanta Hawks basketball game.

WHERE: The Palace of Auburn Hills - West Atrium

6 Championship Drive

Auburn Hills, MI 48326

VISUALS: Metro Detroit teens and parents will personally pledge to "X the

TXT" this season by adding their thumb prints to a pledge banner

making its way across the country.

WHO: Interviews with:

Allstate Insurance Company spokesperson

*Everyone who makes the pledge will receive a thumb band as a reminder not to text while behind the wheel.