Mock accident at OCCHS an eye-opening experience

The Messenger 05.07.09
By DeLAINA CARY
Special to The Messenger
Every year, high school students anticipate two very important events: high school graduation and prom.
Prom night is considered to be the “night of nights” for ladies and gentlemen alike, but without responsibility, crises can happen. After prom, students may go to parties and drink alcohol and, unfortunately, some get behind the wheel.
While driving drunk, vision and senses are impaired. This could lead to injury or even death to innocent people.
On April 24, the day before prom, Obion County Central High School’s SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) and criminal justice organizations put together a mock wreck simulation of a crash caused by underage drinking. The crushed vehicles that were used in the simulation were actual vehicles that had been involved in an accident after prom. The driver was under the influence and he hit another vehicle, causing serious injury. The innocent person was airlifted to the hospital. AirEvac Lifeteam actually landed on Central’s practice football field.
In the end, the “drunk driver” was arrested for underage drinking and possible vehicular homicide. Hopefully, all of Central’s students paid attention and learned that drinking and driving will only lead to horrible outcomes.
Thanks to the SADD and criminal justice organizations for putting this event together and thanks to everyone that helped, including the Crisis Management Team, Obion County Rescue Squad, Obion County Sheriff’s Department, Air Evac, Baptist Memorial Hospital-Union City’s emergency medical team, Tennessee Highway Patrol and Buddy’s Wrecker Service.
Editor’s note: DeLaina Cary is a senior at OCCHS and a member of the school’s chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD, originally founded as Students Against Driving Drunk).

Print