Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death among youth in Missouri, accounting for nearly 12% of traffic fatalities during the last three years. Although only comprising approximately 8% of Missouri licensed drivers, young drivers were involved in nearly 20% of fatal and serious injury crashes during the last three years.
These early years are of particular concern because of driver inexperience and the high frequency of risky behaviors such as speeding, distracted and drowsy driving, alcohol/drug use and failing to use safety belts.
In the past 3 years (2015-2017), 418 people lost their life in a Missouri traffic crash involving a teen driver.
The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, Missouri Department of Transportation, and East-West Gateway Council of Governments partnered together to offer the St. Louis Youth – Drive For Tomorrow program to area high schools.
St. Louis Youth - Drive for Tomorrow is a one day teen drivers safety program intended to educate and heighten awareness toward positive driving habits for new and future drivers. Students will attend and participate in the following presentations and activities: Street Smart - a no-holds barred presentation that gets students involved in a paramedic led discussion on the importance of students making responsible decisions concerning their safety, Save A Life Tour - driving simulators for students to safely experience the effects of impaired and distracted driving behaviors, a pledge banner for students to sign to commit to being a safe driver and passenger, a $500 scholarship for one student from the Kaela Marie Archambault Foundation, and an informational toolkit for the schools and students armed with more resources, information, and actions to take away from the day.
For more information, please contact Anna Musial at anna.musial@ewgateway.org.
PROGRAM TOOLKIT: DOWNLOAD (PPT)
Presenting Partners
www.kramerintl.com/simulators/drunk-driving-simulator/
Other Resources:
Oakville High School Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSHa5edKrXI&feature=youtu.be