Karratha high school students will learn about the devastating reality of road trauma during RAC Project Road Smart at the Red Earth Arts Precinct today.
The free road safety event is designed to teach Western Australia’s newest drivers about the consequences of distracted driving, speeding and drink driving.
As part of the event, students will be shown a confronting filmed re-enactment of a serious car crash, featuring real-life paramedics, firefighters and police who demonstrate how they respond to serious road crashes.
Over 95 lives have already been lost on WA roads this year, with 53 per cent of those in regional areas.
RAC Head of Communications, Rhys Heron said educating young drivers as they begin navigating our roads is essential to reducing trauma, because it helps them understand how dangerous behaviours can have devastating consequences.
“RAC Project Road Smart not only equips new drivers with the knowledge to make safer choices behind the wheel, but it also sparks important conversations with peers, encouraging them to talk openly about responsible driving and passenger behaviour.”
The event also features WA police and guest speakers who have been directly affected by road trauma.
Robert Pike, who at 17 was involved in a tragic crash which led to the loss of three friends and his legs from below the knees, will talk to the teenagers about his personal experience at their age.
“I want to really share with students that they’re not invincible and the mindset of “it won’t happen to me” will not save them,” Mr Pike said.
“I hope my story has a heavy impact on our next generation of drivers and inspires them to create safe, lasting habits behind the wheel.”
Students will also hear from Julian Pace, CEO and Founder of Happiness Co. about empowering young people to overcome peer pressure and reflect on the impact of the decisions they make behind the wheel, and in everyday life.
RAC Project Road Smart is an annual event for year 10 to 12 students across regional Western Australia, run by RAC with support from WA Police, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and St John WA.
Learn more about RAC Project Road Smart on the RAC website.