Teen-Led Program Contributes to Drastic Reduction in Teen Fatalities Statewide
Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig today announced the high schools selected to participate in the 2009-2010 Operation Teen Safe Driving program.
This statewide safety initiative is designed for teens to educate their peers about driving responsibly in an effort to decrease the number of fatalities and injuries involving teenagers in Illinois.
These announcements come during the National Teen Safe Drivers Week as Illinois records a decline in teen fatalities in automobile crashes this year. From Jan. 1 through Oct. 10, 2009, 60 teens (ages 16-19) lost their lives on Illinois roadways. During the same time period last year, there were 67 teen deaths.
In total, 105 high schools statewide were selected to participate in this innovative program, which utilizes Ford Motor Company Fund’s nationally recognized Ford Driving Skills for Life program. The selected high schools are equally distributed in 7 regions across the state.
“We congratulate the schools selected to take part in this rewarding experience,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “We have confidence these students will go above and beyond to educate and inspire their peers to make better driving decisions in an effort to save lives in their communities and statewide.”
“Ford Driving Skills for Life is pleased to continue our support of this lifesaving program again for the third year. Teens are facing an increased number of hazards on the road, and it is imperative that resources are provided in aiding safe driving choices. The Ford Motor Company is committed to providing ongoing training to not only teens, but drivers of all ages,” said Jim Graham, Manager, Community Relations.