New Jersey High School Students Get Graphic Warning of Driving Dangers

Six people with traumatic brain injuries visited Kittatinny Regional High School to warn students about the dangers of reckless driving.

The visitors, most in wheelchairs, told students about how their bad decisions when younger left them with life-changing injuries.

The program was started by New Jersey State Trooper James Bambara as part of driver’s education classes, with the goal of preventing drunk and reckless driving.

Most of the visitors were injured when they were around high school age.

One guest flipped his SUV while driving drunk at 21. Another wrecked her car while drag racing at 17. Another fell asleep at the wheel returning home from a night shift.

All of the guests suffered brain injuries that make speaking difficult. They also all need help with daily living activities, such as showering, brushing their teeth, and dressing.

Another New Jersey School, Emerson Jr./Sr. High, participated in the “U Got Brains” competition sponsored by the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey.

Students produce public service announcements (PSAs) to educate people about unsafe practices that can lead to serious brain injuries. This year Emerson’s PSAs focused on distracted driving.

One of last year’s winners was created by a Warren Country school and stars “GDL Man” – a superhero who zaps the licenses of teenage drivers who violate laws relating to Graduated Driver Licenses.

According to the AAA Foundation for Safety, the risk of death for a 16- or 17-year-old driver rises 44 percent with one passenger under 21 in the car. The risk doubles with two teen passengers and quadruples with three underage passengers.

Half of all high-school graduates crash their cars within six months of graduation. To reduce the dangers of teen driving, the National Safety Council urges parents to spend at least 30 minutes in the car each week with young drivers even after they’re licensed.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, contact an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Hasson, P.C.