Chicago Auto Show & NRSF Invite Teens to Help Spread Message About Distracted Driving
Teens from Chicagoland and neighboring states are being invited to help spread the word about the dangers of distracted driving, as a new video contest launches from The National Road Safety Foundation, a non-profit group that promotes safe driving.
The contest, called Drive Safe Chicago, asks teens to submit ideas for a 30-second public service announcement that reminds viewers not to text or make calls while driving. The winner will receive a $2,000 award and will have the chance to work with an Emmy Award-winning TV producer to turn the winning script into a finished ad that will air nationwide. The winning spot will also be played on the social media video wall at the Chicago Auto Show, which runs from Feb. 14 – 22.
"Distracted driving is a serious risk that needs to be addressed at all levels," said John Webb, 2014 Chicago Auto Show chairman. “Today's cars are safer than ever, with many innovations that help avoid crashes and protect occupants in the event of one. But driver inattention – distraction – continues to be a major factor in crashes. We hope the Drive Safe Chicago campaign engages teens to be messengers both to their peers and to adults that distracted driving is dangerous driving."
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates some 3,000 people are killed every year due to distracted driving, and tens of thousands more are injured. The most talked-about causes of distraction are texting and cell phone use, but drivers also can be distracted by use of other mobile devices like GPS, adjusting sound system controls, talking with passengers or even eating.
"Anything that takes the driver's eyes off the road and mind off driving is a distraction that can have serious consequences," said Michelle Anderson, Operations Director of The National Road Safety Foundation. "Driving requires full attention. It's not something that can be done safely while multi-tasking."
Teens who live in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana and Iowa are invited to enter by sending a script or storyboards for a TV ad that reminds people not to drive distracted. Entries deadline is Jan. 9, 2015 and the winner will be announced at the Chicago Auto Show. A runner-up will receive a $1,000 award. All entrants will receive two free tickets to the 2015 Chicago Auto Show.
Information about distracted driving and the Drive Safe Chicago Contest can be seen at www.teenlane.org.
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