Karratha high school students will learn about the life-changing reality of road trauma during RAC Project Road Smart at the Red Earth Arts Precinct today.
Students will watch 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 Senior Manager Communications, Rhys Heron said 74 lives have been lost on WA roads this year, with nearly 70 per cent of those in regional areas.
“It’s crucial to educate students on the life-changing realities of road trauma,” Mr Heron 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 road trauma.
Students will also hear from Julian Pace, CEO of Happiness Co. about overcoming peer pressure and the importance of the decisions they make behind the wheel, and in everyday life.
RAC’s recent Young Driver Survey of over 500 WA drivers aged 17 to 21, revealed 84 per cent have exceeded the speed limit since getting their licence, while 40 per cent have used their phone behind the wheel.
“These results show the overconfidence of many young drivers who have a mentality of ‘it will never happen to me,’ which puts them at a higher risk,” Mr Heron 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.
RAC also encourages students to take advantage of programs such as Keys2drive, which gives learner drivers a free lesson with an accredited driving instructor.
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Media contact: Olivia Palmer, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
