Students Learn Safe Driving Skills with Distracted Driving Simulator

CHARLESTON, S.C., April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the National Safety Council Southeastern Chapter (SCNSC), State Farm, and local law enforcement are joining forces to deliver an eye-opening safety event for students at Wando High School on April 23 and Lucy Beckham High School on April 24.

With teen drivers facing heightened risks every time they get behind the wheel, this hands-on program is designed to encourage smarter, safer choices through interactive learning. The event features three unique experiences that put students in the driver's seat - literally.

At the heart of the event is a virtual reality simulator that shows students firsthand the dangers of distractions behind the wheel. Students wear virtual reality goggles and operate a real SUV in a stationary position while they navigate a variety of conditions including road work in work zones, roundabouts, busy interstates, winding rural roads and more. Next, law enforcement officers will lead mock traffic stops, helping students understand what to expect and how to respond if they are pulled over while driving. Finally, a golf cart course with fatal vision impairment goggles show students how alcohol or drugs can affect motor skills and judgment, without the real-world consequences.

"State Farm^® is committed to keeping everyone safe on our roadways," said Rasheed Merritt, Assistant Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at State Farm. "We are proud to support the National Safety Council Southeastern Chapter and their distracted driving simulator program aimed at saving lives by engaging and educating teens about safe behavior choices behind the wheel and as passengers in vehicles."

Car crashes continue to be a leading cause of death among teenagers. Through hands-on programs like this one, SCNSC and State Farm are shaping a safer future on our roads by driving home the importance of taking responsibility behind the wheel.

About the National Safety Council Southeastern Chapter: 
SCNSC is a nonprofit organization based in Irmo, SC with a mission to save lives from the roadway to the workplace across South Carolina and Georgia. SCNSC accomplishes this mission by providing training courses for traffic safety, workplace safety and first aid. For more information visit www.scnsc.org or call (800) 733-6185.

SOURCE National Safety Council Southeastern Chapter