Key Takeaways:
- Bridie Young and Soraya Newton, survivors of car crashes, are working with Students Against Dangerous Driving (Sadd) to educate young people about the risks of drunk and dangerous driving.
- Young people should make smart decisions and call out their friends if they are engaging in risky behavior.
- According to Ministry of Transport data, approximately 90 deaths and 600 serious injuries occur each year due to crashes where a young driver is at fault.
- Alcohol and drugs are significant contributing factors to road accidents, with 323 deaths and serious injuries attributed to alcohol in the past 12 months.
- Sadd is promoting safe driving practices, including staying off phones, driving to conditions, and never drinking and driving.
Introduction to the Story
Bridie Young’s life was forever changed after a car crash left her in a coma for nearly two months. The road to recovery was long and arduous, with six months of intensive rehabilitation required to relearn basic skills such as standing, walking, and talking. Despite the challenges, Young is now using her experience to warn others about the dangers of drunk and dangerous driving. She is collaborating with fellow crash survivor Soraya Newton and Students Against Dangerous Driving (Sadd) to educate young people about the risks associated with reckless driving.
The Consequences of Drunk and Dangerous Driving
Young’s story is a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk and dangerous driving. She recalls the frustration and difficulty of relearning everyday tasks, likening it to being a baby again. The experience has left her with a deep understanding of the importance of making smart decisions, particularly when it comes to driving. Young wants to convey to young people that the perceived fun and excitement of drunk or dangerous driving is not worth the risks. She emphasizes that the consequences of such actions can be lifelong and devastating, not just for the individual but also for their loved ones.
Educating Young People
Young has been sharing her story with at-risk youth at police stations and schools, highlighting the importance of responsible driving practices. She stresses that it is crucial for young people to make smart decisions and look out for their friends, even if it means speaking up and stopping them from engaging in risky behavior. According to Young, it may be awkward in the moment, but it is essential to prioritize safety and potentially save lives. The Ministry of Transport data supports Young’s message, with approximately 90 deaths and 600 serious injuries occurring each year due to crashes where a young driver is at fault.
The Role of Sadd in Promoting Safe Driving
Students Against Dangerous Driving (Sadd) is working tirelessly to promote safe driving practices among young people. The organization’s general manager, Donna Govorko, praises the resilience of Young and Newton, highlighting the importance of their stories in serving as a reminder of the lifelong impact of poor decisions. Govorko emphasizes the need for young people to speak up before getting in a car with a drunk driver, look out for their friends, and stand up to peer pressure. She also stresses the importance of safe driving practices, including staying off phones, driving to conditions, and never drinking and driving.
The Impact of Alcohol and Drugs on Road Safety
The statistics on the impact of alcohol and drugs on road safety are alarming. According to the NZ Transport Agency, alcohol was a contributing factor in 323 deaths and serious injuries on New Zealand roads in the past 12 months. Furthermore, a combination of drugs and alcohol contributed to 80 deaths or injuries during the same period. These numbers highlight the need for young people to be aware of the risks associated with drunk and dangerous driving and to make informed decisions to prioritize their safety and the safety of others.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Bridie Young’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of responsible driving practices. By sharing her experience and collaborating with Sadd, Young hopes to educate young people about the risks associated with drunk and dangerous driving. The key takeaways from her story are clear: make smart decisions, call out friends who are engaging in risky behavior, and prioritize safety above all else. As the summer months approach, it is essential for young people to be aware of the dangers of drunk and dangerous driving and to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. By working together, we can reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on our roads and create a safer driving culture for everyone.