Local High School Students Learn the Consequences of Drunk Driving

BROOKE COUNTY, W.Va. (WTRF) — A special demonstration was held today at one local high school where students got to see firsthand what the consequences can be from driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Juniors and seniors at Brooke High School witnessed a demonstration of what a real-life drunk driving accident would look like and how it could lead to serious consequences.

The mock scene was conducted in the high school parking lot with assistance from the Brooke County Sheriff’s Department, Wellsburg and Follansbee Volunteer Fire Departments, and Brooke County EMS.

Following the demonstration, students were addressed by the local first responders who conducted the scenario and discussed with them just how serious these types of situations can be.

With Brooke High School’s prom happening this weekend, Principal Eric James says taking the time out of a school day to show students a real-life scenario will hopefully make them think twice about their decisions.

“I think when you’re putting these kids in a situation to see firsthand what can happen as a result of a bad decision that they make, I think the chance is lessened that they could make a bad choice. But I think things like this are much more important than what they learn in a classroom. These are life’s lessons, and if you make the wrong choice, you’re no longer here and we want to see them all back on Monday after the prom.”

Eric James – Principal, Brooke High School

The demonstration was part of a “don’t drink and drive” campaign that the school has been focusing on as prom and graduation approaches.

The hope is to conduct a similar scenario next year for students while adding in the judicial aspects with a mock trial following the crash demonstration.

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