Project Yellow Light Is Fighting to End Distracted Driving – and They’re Willing to Pay to Do It

Project Yellow Light and the Ad Council have declared winners for their ninth annual Project Yellow Light scholarship competition. In the contest, students are assigned the project of developing a billboard, radio, or television public service announcement (PSA) that educates their own generation about the perils of distracted driving – in particular, the dangers of texting or using a phone in any other way while driving.

Sykesville native Sierra Fentress was this year’s winner, out of more than 2100 entries. Her design is being displayed on billboards across the nation in 26 cities, including in Baltimore. In addition, as the winner Fentress benefits by receiving some scholarship money.

Project Yellow Light was started by the family of Hunter Garner in 2007 in honor of his memory after he was killed in a car crash at the age of 16. The purpose of the scholarship competition is to bring about a change of driving habits among other young people through the design of effective billboards, videos, or radio spots that encourage, persuade, and motivate peers not to participate in distracted driving.

Other national campaigns to end distracted driving

End Distracted Driving

End Distracted Driving was started by the parents of Casey Feldman, a young lady who lost her life as a result of a distracted driver in 2009. This national organization elevates awareness and initiates action to reduce the problem of distracted driving. Speakers for the organization visit schools, workplaces, and community events, providing presentations on the subject. The organization also has an informative website that provides information and resources on a range of distracted driving topics, including preventing texting and distracted driving.

Drop It and Drive (DIAD)

The stated mission of the DIAD is to stop the problem of distracted driving by elevating awareness in the public and make texting and talking while driving just as unacceptable socially as drinking and driving. The organization produces presentations and seminars for groups of all ages, from children in elementary school to community groups, to business groups.

The DIAD links interested parties to driving simulators so they can demonstrate to employees the  dangers of using a mobile device while driving. The simulator shows participants how just a momentary distraction using a device while operating a motor vehicle can result in car crashes that cause injuries to drivers and passengers on the road.

In addition to these national campaigns to reduce and eliminate distracted driving, these organizations offer plenty of resources to help drivers and parents of teen drivers:

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers resources on distracted driving.
• The National Safety Council (NSC) provides extensive information about distracted driving.

Distracted driving kills thousands of people each year. We hope Ms. Fentress’ design helps keep our roads safer. In the meantime, if you were hurt by a distracted driver in Maryland, Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A. is here to help. Please call today at 410.730.7737 or leave us a message through our contact form.