DOTD along with Destination Zero Deaths are looking for a commitment to safe driving and they’ve launched “Buckle Up, Phone Down” High School Video and Pledge Contest. Louisiana high school students are invited to submit videos highlighting the importance of seat belt use and avoiding phone distractions. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says a panel of judges will choose the top three videos and winners will receive cash prizes.
“It’s going to give students a chance to be creative, while at the same time understanding the importance of safe driving,” Mallet said.
AAA is providing the cash prizes. Mallett says videos should highlight seatbelt use and the importance of avoiding phone use distractions. Submissions will be accepted now through October 31, and they can be between 30 seconds and 2 minutes long.
“And then you submit it with the submission form, also available on our website. And then the judges will look at all of the entries and make a decision on 1st, 2nd, 3rd place by the end of the year,” Mallet explained.
Last year, distracted driving contributed to a quarter of crash fatalities in Louisiana and Mallet says, the “Buckle Up, Phone Down” contest includes a pledge they are asking all Louisianans to sign – agreeing to avoid phone use, wear a seatbelt, and speak up when they feel unsafe in cars with others.
“Young drivers don’t buckle up for whatever reason. Maybe it’s because they’re teens and they feel like they’re invincible. We also know how people are addicted to their phones these days,” Mallet noted.
The pledge and contest rules can be found on DOTD’s website.
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