A new report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says nearly 6,000 Americans were killed in highway accidents caused by distracted drivers last year, and that another half million were injured.
    
The disturbing findings have prompted the government to hold a summit Wednesday on finding ways to make U.S. highways safer.
    
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says the Obama administration plans to work with Congress to curb distracted driving.

"Every single time you take your eyes off the road, or talk on the phone while driving even for just a few seconds, you put your life in danger, and you put other lives in danger also," he said. 

*Originally published September 30, 2009