More than 1600 students from 17 schools in the South West will gear up to learn about the consequences of risky driving during RAC Project Road Smart at Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre.
Held on two days from Wednesday 1 March, the fully booked event includes a filmed re-enactment of a serious car crash, featuring real-life paramedics, firefighters and police who demonstrate how they respond to road trauma.
RAC General Manager External Relations, Will Golsby said 22 lives have already been lost on WA roads this year, with the majority of those in regional areas.
“It’s crucial to educate students on the life-changing realities of road trauma, especially for those living, and learning how to drive in regional areas” Mr Golsby said.
“RAC Project Road Smart teaches students about the importance of safe driver and passenger behaviour, as well as the effects that alcohol, speed, reckless behaviour, and inattention have on driving.”
Guest speaker Robert Pike, who was involved in a tragic crash which led to the loss of three friends and the loss of his legs from below the knees, will share his personal experience with the students.
“I was in high school when this happened to me, so I hope my story provides a wake-up call to these students and inspires them to create safe, lasting habits behind the wheel,” Mr Pike said.
“Driving requires all your attention, 100 per cent of the time. All it takes is a small distraction, a fraction of a second to lose focus, and your life could change forever.”
Students will also hear from Julian Pace, CEO of Happiness Co. about overcoming daily hurdles, peer pressure and the importance of the decisions they make behind the wheel, and in everyday life.
According to the Road Safety Commission, over a quarter of all road deaths in 2021 were in the 17 to 29 age group.
“The inexperience and overconfidence of many young drivers puts them at a significantly higher risk, which is why RAC Project Road Smart aims to provide a wake-up call that lasts,” Mr Golsby said.
RAC Project Road Smart is a free road safety event for year 10 to 12 students, run by RAC with support from WA Police, Department of Fire and Emergency Services and St John WA.
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Media contact: Olivia Palmer, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
