Assemblywoman Addie Russell (D-Theresa) congratulates
all of the high school seniors who graduated last weekend or will be graduating
this weekend. Graduating from high school is truly a milestone in a student’s
life and graduation ceremonies and celebrations are part of the experience.
The Assemblywoman is also reminding
everyone to be safe during this weekend of high school graduation parties. Graduation
weekend can be an especially hazardous time to be on the road with increased
traffic and the potential for alcohol related accidents.
“The upcoming weekend is a busy one for
graduation parties with lots of out of town visitors and younger drivers out on
the road,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Let’s all do our part to encourage safe
driving – whether on the way to ceremonies or leaving parties.”
With numerous graduation parties
occurring around the North Country this weekend, Assemblywoman Russell urged everyone
to avoid driving if they have been drinking.
“Though it is a time to celebrate,
celebrations can turn into tragedies if you get behind the wheel after
drinking,” Assemblywoman Russell said.
“If you plan to drink or are tired, please find a designated driver and
if you don’t have one, call a friend or family member to pick you up.”
Graduation season is an exceptionally
dangerous time for teen drivers, occurring during days between Memorial Day and
Labor Day known as the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers. Over these days in
2012, nearly 1,000 people were killed in crashes involving teen drivers, and
more than 550 of those killed were teens, according to National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration data analyzed by the nonprofit National Safety Council.[1]
Parents looking for more information on
keeping your child safe on the road this summer can visit http://www.driveithome.org/
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