Louisiana has launched the “Buckle Up, Phone Down: High School Showdown” in nine schools. That includes Plain Dealing High School in north Bossier Parish. The pledge challenge, for better driving practices, kicked-off Wednesday [October 30] and runs through December 31.
As Sean Richardson with the Louisiana Radio Network (LRN) reports, spokesman Rodney Mallet, with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD) explains, “Buckle Up, Phone down is really a nationwide push for public information, public outreach, public education on two of the most important things that can save people’s lives.” Beyond Plain Dealing’s involvement, the other eight high schools taking part in the program include Berwick, LaGrange, Terrebonne, Plainview, Chalmette, Ponchatoula, Walker, and Neville.
Mallet points out, “Wearing a seatbelt decreases the risk of a fatality in a crash by 45% yet some people, a lot of young people still won’t wear their seatbelt.” A successful initiative in Missouri became the model for the nationwide campaign. The two high schools with the highest pledge rates will be awarded $5,000 and $2,500 donations from AAA for safety programs. Schools are encouraged to use assemblies, classroom lessons, peer presentations, and events to engage students. The ultimate goal, says Mallett, is to reduce traffic deaths by promoting lifelong safe driving practices among young Louisianans.
Data from 2019 to 2023 reveals a concerning trend in Louisiana, highlighting the urgent need for programs like the BUPD High School Showdown. Officials point to a number of statistics that reveal the extent of the problem, which include:
• Unrestrained drivers and passengers were involved in 34% of all fatalities and 19% of all serious injuries from car crashes statewide.
• Distracted drivers were involved in 20% of all fatalities and 31% of all serious injuries from car crashes statewide.
• In 2023, distracted driving was a factor in 21% of crashes.
