Dangers Of Texting And Drunken Driving Event

Saint Martin University in Lacey is offering a distracted driving and drunken driving education program for the students today (Monday). The Arrive Alive Tour from UNITE is visiting the Student Center at Saint Martin from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

The Arrive Alive program uses a high-tech simulator, impact video, and a number of other resources to educate students about the dangers of texting while driving. The simulator allows students to experience in a controlled environment the potential consequences of distracted or drunken driving.

One of the most commonly recognized driving distractions is cell phone use. About 89 percent of all Americans have a cell phone, according to CTIA – The Wireless Association. Drivers under 20 years old have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Their lack of driving experience can contribute to critical misjudgments if they become distracted.

Not surprisingly, they text more than any other age group and the numbers of young drivers who text is only increasing. UNITE brings health and wellness programs to high school and college campuses across the nation. Their programs are designed to heighten awareness to the dangers and consequences of drunk driving and distracted driving. Their follow-up programs have a powerful impact on students to reinforce the subjects that schools and parents teach them daily.