CRANSTON, R.I. (AP) — Students and teachers at Rhode Island high schools will be asked this year to sign a pledge not to text while driving as part of a statewide public awareness campaign.

The state attorney general's office is joining with the state Department of Transportation and school officials to warn against the dangers of texting while behind the wheel. The effort is part of AT&T's "Txtng & Drivng ... It Can Wait" campaign.

Officials say 43 percent of teens admit to texting while driving. Many say their parents set a bad example by doing the same.

The campaign will formally launch at Cranston High School East on Sept. 19. That day will be declared "Don't Text and Drive Day" in Rhode Island.