ATLANTA (September 19, 2013) – Senator John Albers (R –Roswell) spoke to students at Roswell High School as part of the “It Can Wait” Drive 4 Pledges Day on Thursday, September 19. Sponsored by AT&T, the “It Can Wait” campaign seeks to raise awareness of the dangers associated with distracted driving and prevent texting behind the wheel.
“Raising awareness and educating our youth about the dangers of texting while driving will help make Georgia roads a safer place to drive,” said Sen. Albers. “I would like to thank Roswell High School and AT&T for sponsoring this event and promoting responsible driving behaviors among our youth. It is my hope the young people at Roswell High School will lead the charge for all Atlantans.”
As vice chair of the Senate Public Safety Committee, Senator Albers challenged students to be responsible and engage in safe driving behaviors that won’t put themselves and others at risk. Students were also able to participate in a “texting while driving” simulation, further emphasizing the inherent dangers and life-altering consequences of texting while operating a motor vehicle. This event featured speakers from Georgia’s public safety community, AT&T and local education and county officials.
“As wireless has become a more central part of all of our lives, we must ensure that we use the technology safely, which means never texting while driving. All of us can make an impact on this problem by taking the pledge and sharing our commitment with our friends and family,” said Ann Elsas at AT&T Communications.
Texting while driving claims the lives of thousands of people each year, particularly among our youth. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 9 people are killed and over 1,060 people are injured daily in the United States as a result distracted driving.
Senator Albers’ son Will is currently a senior at Roswell High School and signed the “It Can Wait” pledge along with many of his classmates.
RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
September 19, 2013
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Shawna Mercer, Sr. Communications Specialist
Shawna.mercer@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028