The Travelers Institute hosted two driver safety sessions last month for students at Roslyn High School to address the importance of driving without distraction.
Distracted driving is a national concern. More than 90 percent of consumers surveyed in the 2018 Travelers Risk Index worry about distraction caused by people using personal technology while driving and 85 percent said it is extremely risky to use smartphones or tablets while driving.
Despite those findings, more than one in five consumers admit to driving while using personal technology, such as a smartphone or tablet.
“Distraction behind the wheel can have devastating effects,” said Jessica Kearney, executive director of the Travelers Institute. “Every driver and passenger plays a role in changing social norms around distraction. As new drivers prepare to get their licenses, it’s important that the topic of distraction is top of mind so they avoid making dangerous decisions.”
The Suffolk County District Attorney recently announced a new outreach program, “Choices and Consequences,” designed to educate high school students and their parents on the dangers of impaired and reckless driving, the two leading causes of motor vehicle crashes in the county.
The Roslyn High School Parents and Faculty Association has also taken action, promoting the GLOVE IT campaign, which was created by a Roslyn family and encourages drivers to place cellphones in the glove box.
“At Roslyn High School, we understand the dangers of distracted driving and take seriously our role in the education of students and parents on the importance of safe driving,” said Jay Pilnick, assistant principal at Roslyn High School. “Having the Travelers Institute come to our school to address this topic and provide tips that our students can use is one way for us to demonstrate our commitment.”
Justin Fries, Chief Operating Officer of Garber Atlas Fries and Associates, worked with Roslyn High School to secure the Travelers Institute for these sessions. Roslyn High School students of driving age who completed this driver safety course now qualify for a parking permit at school.
Visit the Travelers Institute website for more information about the company’s Every Second Matters campaign.
