JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
Even though they're too young to drive, ten year-old Derrick Franklin and twelve year-old Katlyn Roberts are years ahead of learning how to steer safely behind the wheel.
"Don't text and drive, no drinking while driving," said Katlyn.
The program is called the UPS Road Code. It's a collaboration between the Boys and Girls Club and UPS.
"It's not teaching them how to drive, but its teaching them not to drive distracted and do the wrong things that can get them into an accident and even die," said Billy Redd, the President and CEO for the Boys and Girls Club of Central Mississippi.
According to the Center for Disease Control, vehicle wrecks are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. So to help reduce those fatalities, the UPS Road Code Program offers the use of virtual driving simulators. One of the simulation activities shows young drivers what can happen when you drink and drive. The mock driving lesson realistically illustrates an accident, going to the emergency room after a wreck and being sentenced in court for a DUI.
"You can tell them all day long don't use text, but by them seeing it for themselves the consequences of distracted driving you know they'll be more conscious of what they're doing," said LaSonji Simmons, Katlyn's mom.
Right now the UPS Road Code Program is available at the Sykes Boys and Girls Club in Jackson. Eventually the virtual simulators, as well as the classroom instruction will make its way throughout all of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi. Including Jackson, the UPS Road Code Program is offered in 36 cities nationwide.
For more information call 601-969-7088 or go to www.bgca.org/roadcode.
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