Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office Supports Teen Driver Safety Week
Monmouth County: Sheriff Shaun Golden supports National Teen Driver Safety Week, from Oct. 21-Oct. 28, 2018, in an effort to keep young drivers safe. During this week, and every week, parents should discuss with their teens the rules that must be followed in an effort to stay safe while driving, and, make them aware that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens fifteen to eighteen years old in the United States.
“As parents, we have a very strong influence on our teens and it’s our duty to ensure that they know the rules of the road before getting behind the wheel,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden. “Risky driving can lead to dangerous and fatal consequences. In an effort to avoid that, teens should never drink and drive, buckle up at all times, not drive distracted or drowsy and be aware of the number of passengers in the car.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that in 2016, teen drivers of passenger vehicles (15-18 years old) killed in motor vehicle crashes experienced a 6 percent increase from 2015, which is nearly 50 additional lives lost. In regards to distracted driving, which is perhaps the most serious issue on the roadways, 3,450 people were killed in crashes in 2016.
The Monmouth County Sheriff’s created its own program, “Distracted Driving, Seconds that could Change or End Your Life!” presented to high schools throughout Monmouth County.
The video-based program includes various driving scenarios and interviews with victims of accidents caused by distracted drivers. During the hour presentation, distracted driving is explained along with the types of distracted driving such as texting and talking on cell phones, eating, drinking, reading and grooming, among other activities. In addition, several compelling videos, detailing the aftermath of distracted driving are graphically illustrated. At the conclusion, students have the opportunity to ask questions and are left with the advice to share the information they obtained with others. Within the next month the program will be presented at six high schools.
“We have seen too many crashes on our roadways as a result of distracted driving,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden. “Texting and talking on a cell phone while driving is irresponsible. It takes the focus off of the roads and may have deadly consequences that otherwise could be avoided.”
To schedule the program, please contact Kathy Morrison at 732-431-6400 ext. 1122.
For a downloadable version of this press release click here: News Release – MCSO Supports Teen Driver Safety Week
