dnt txt & drv
The prevalence of mobile phone use, both talking and texting, by teen drivers has increased the teen death rate substantially across our country. In an attempt to bring awareness to this problem and to educate our youth, the "dnt txt & drv" program was birthed. This initiative to decrease motor vehicle deaths among our young people was created by NCSHP Lt. Doug Hayes and has been further developed by Trooper Kevin Hennelly. The message to the young people is simple, 'don't text and drive.'

 

Recently, the urgency of this message was heightened as a teenager was killed in an automobile accident in Gaston County. Her cell phone was found nearby with an unfinished text message addressed to her mother. Click here for full story.

This popular program has been received with great enthusiasm by the 300 area youth who have participated. Following a 'trial run' a mere two weeks ago with a small number of youth from Sunrise Church in Lewisville, the program has made it's way to West Forsyth High School and most recently South Stokes High School.

This 'hands-on' driving experience offers the students an opportunity to experience the effects of texting while driving. A road course of orange cones is navigated by the students while both driving a golf cart and sending and receiving text messages. While the penalty is less severe in this controlled setting, students experience the consequences of being distracted while driving.

This experience is streamlined and can be presented to a school class in 45 minutes. There is a short time of sharing a few statistics and the experience is concluded by a presentation of a graphic four(4) minute dramatization of the results of texting and driving. The bulk of the program time is focused on allowing the young people to navigate the course.

While the "dont txt & drv" program was conceived and launched in the Triad, it will eventually make its way across the state as local troopers are trained and implement the program in their areas.

For more information you may contact Trooper Kevin Hennelly at 704.639.7595.