On Wednesday, November 8th, Preston High School students experienced the effects of alcohol on the ability to control a vehicle. Daniel Pickens with the WV Alcohol Beverage Control Administration (WVABCA) brought the organization’s DUI Simulator to Preston High School so students in Anthony Haskiell’s Driver’s education classes and Morgan Bryant’s health classes could sit behind the wheel of the computerized simulator and experience the effects of trying to control a vehicle at different BAC (blood alcohol concentration) levels. The student sits in an actual car seat behind a steering wheel and faces a set of three computer screens. The student then “drives” through one of several programmed scenes, facing multiple obstacles and hazards. After the initial phase of the drive, the simulator adjusts to the driver’s reflexes and increases the effects of BAC, mimicking the difficulties drivers encounter at various BAC levels. Most students are unable to complete the designated course because they cannot stay on the road or they collide with other vehicles, trees, or even pedestrians. Haskiell said his hope is that this simulated experience will encourage students to not drink and drive.
The WVABCA works in partnership with State Farm and the WV Governor’s Highway Safety Program to provide the DUI simulator. The program is used to combat underage drinking and educate youth about the dangers of drinking and driving distracted. According to the DUI Simulator information on the WVABCA website, “since the kick-off event in the fall of 2010, the DUI Simulator has traveled to every high school in the state and has visited several colleges and universities and attended other special events…The DUI Simulator Program places an emphasis on encouraging youth and the public to make good decisions while behind the wheel and throughout life.”
(additional photos available on PCS social media or under Live Feed on prestoncountyschools.com)