Starting early in the last week of April, Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced that the Teen Traffic Safety Program will be making rounds in the local high schools. This is to ensure that the number of youths who will be aware that traffic safety practices can save lives will increase.

In the same program last year by the Department of Traffic Safety, along with its government and community partners were able to reach out to at least 4000 teens. The goal for this year is to bump up that number a little more.

"We try to teach the message every year, and we keep coming back at our young drivers every year, because the message we have given them is one that could help avert an accident and save a life. We want to send a strong message that reminds young people that getting behind the wheel is serious business, and that we want them to stay safe," Picente said.

The presentation will include a DWI Traffic Safety Simulator that will allow students to safely experience firsthand the effects of driving while intoxicated. Also included is the PEERS simulator, which is a driving experience that allows students to see, hear and feel the experience of driving while under the influence of alcohol.

The New York State Police will also be aiding the effort by providing the Roll-over simulator and Seat Belt Convincer. A representative from the state DOT will also be providing a presentation on “Work Zone” driving safety, making this a complete teen driving safety program.

The schools and dates of the visits are as follows:

• Monday, April 25, at Westmoreland High School
• Wednesday, April 27, at Clinton High School
• Thursday, April 28, at VVS High School
• Friday, April 29, at Oriskany High School
• Monday, May 2, at Proctor High School
• Tuesday, May 3, at RFA High School
• Wednesday, May 4, at Holland Patent High School
• Thursday, May 5, at Whitesboro High School

Labels: dwi, teen driver safety, teen drivers