The Elk Grove Police Department (EGPD) is currently seeking 100 teenage drivers to participate in the “3D: Distracted Driving Demonstration” program during the week of March 25-29, 2013.
Twenty students per day, during two different time periods, will participate in the distracted driving demonstrations on a closed driving course. Teens will participate in several driving scenarios while performing other tasks such as using a smart phone to text or talk, applying makeup, reaching for items in the car, etc.
Each teen will have a certified driving instructor from the EGPD as a passenger to ensure they perform the tasks and to intervene if necessary to ensure safety, yet make the point of the exercise. The participants will be asked to answer a few questions before and after the demonstration to measure any change in their attitudes about distracted driving. A video documenting the participants’ efforts will be created and used as an educational tool.
The program is possible thanks to a $10,000 grant from The Allstate Foundation to educate teenagers about the dangers of distracted driving.
The program is being held in conjunction with the Elk Grove Youth Commission. Parents who are interested in having their teenagers participate in the program should contact the EGPD Traffic Bureau at 916-478-8148 or visit www.elkgrovepd.org/ddd.
