Can New Technology From Automakers Reduce Distracted Driving? Many motorists continue to engage in distracted driving behaviour even though they understand how risky the behaviour is. In a recent survey by Kelley Blue Book, more than ninety-five of the re

Mar

Can New Technology From Automakers Reduce Distracted Driving? Many motorists continue to engage in distracted driving behaviour even though they understand how risky the behaviour is. In a recent survey by Kelley Blue Book, more than ninety-five of the re

Alaskan Teens Create Short Films To Highlight The Perils of Distracted Driving

Teens between the ages of fifteen to nineteen make up only seven percent of the populations of Anchorage. Unfortunately, these teens account for sixteen percent of the vehicle crashes. A local high school, South High School, wants to change those statistics with their short film production.

According to teens from South High School, distractions that teens face while driving are not just texting or using their cellphones. Along with five of her classmates, Haley Edmondson has created a short film showing how easily teens can become distracted by many situations from the task of driving. The film is part of a state initiative called “Raise Your Voice” and is one of eight short films made by high school students in support of the Alaska Injury Prevention Center’s campaign.

Her team is one of eight from around the state that made short films about the risks of distracted driving as a part of the “Raise Your Voice” campaign from the Alaska Injury Prevention Center.

The films chosen are all made by students with the common aim to make teens aware that they are not invincible while behind the wheel. Many teens don’t realize that distractions such as loud music, passengers and even singing along in a vehicle while driving can easily result in a collision or fatality.

Tips For Teen Drivers To Avoid Distracted Driving

Creating the short films was a great experience for these teens from Alaska but awareness is only the tip of the iceberg. Teen drivers need to take the next step and avoid distractions while driving. These are several tips Young Drivers of Canada suggest teens follow when driving:

1. Avoid cellphone distraction. Turn off your cell phone. Let friends and family know that you will be traveling, and you won’t be checking your phone until you arrive at your destination.

2. Let your passengers know that driving requires your attention. Avoid loud music and singing while driving.

3. Avert the drive-thru. Eating or drinking while driving is a distraction.

These three simple tips can make the difference between getting to your destination safely or getting into a crash. Remember, driving is a privilege and being driven by a friend also has its responsibilities!