Mock Crash Sends Message to Grasso Tech Teens About Driver Safety

Crash Reenactment Reinforces Governor Rell's Teen Driving Safety Initiative

In response to Governor Rell's teen driver safety initiative, Grasso Technical High School, in Groton, CT, presented a simulated crash scene and safety program on May 28th.  The program was intended to drive home the seriousness need for safety awareness amongst teen drivers.  The simulated crash program was presented in time for the upcoming prom season and the start of summer vacation.

The program was done in conjunction with the Connecticut State Police, Poquonnock Bridge Fire Department and the local ambulance service.  After the simulated crash that included the Life Star helicopter, representatives from the emergency response teams and the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles presented and reinforced the dangers of drinking and driving as well as reckless driving to the students of Grasso Tech.

The Governor’s teen driving safety bill that was signed into law on April 17th, places a great deal of attention on teen driver safety in Connecticut. According to the State Department of Motor Vehicles, car accidents claimed the lives of 15 teens in 2007 and 14 teens in 2006.  In the first three months of this year, the state lost seven teens to traffic fatalities on Connecticut roadways.  The teen driving safety bill includes more stringent curfews, increases in fines, and tighter restrictions on new drivers.

The simulated crash program was coordinated by Grasso Tech's Students Against Drunk Driving organization (SADD) and the Students Making a Difference organization.