Simulator demonstrates dangers of texting and driving

SHREVEPORT, La. (Centenary News Service) — Unite International will demonstrate the dangers of texting while driving by bringing a driving simulator to the Centenary College campus on Tuesday, Oct. 12.

The Arrive Alive Tour 2010 makes a stop at Centenary College Tuesday, Oct. 12

The Arrive Alive Tour 2010 will be at Bynum Commons from 9:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. to raise awareness of this dangerous trend among today's drivers.

Rated as the number one driver-distracted driving prevention program in the country, Unite International utilizes a high-tech simulator, impact video and number of resources to educate students about the dangers of texting and driving.

The simulator operates just like a real car. Sensors are hooked up to the wheels, gas pedal and brake pedal. The driver wears virtual reality goggles that show him/her various driving courses. While driving down the course, the driver receives text messages and is given obstacles that he/she must avoid. It is common for drivers to veer off the road and crash.

At the end of the simulated drive, the driver is given a report of how he/she drove. Along with the results, the driver is told the possible consequences for their driving, such as fines and accidents. By using the driving simulator, students are able to have a hands-on experience to see how much texting affects driving.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, using a cell phone while driving delays a driver's reactions as much as having a blood alcohol concentration at the legal limit of .08 percent. Their research has also found that drivers under the age of 20 are most likely to be in fatal crashes due to distracted driving.

For more information on this program, contact the Department of Public Safety at 318.869.5000.

About Centenary College of Louisiana

Centenary College is a private, four-year arts and sciences college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Founded in 1825, it is the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi River and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Centenary is one of 16 colleges and universities constituting the Associated Colleges of the South and has been recognized as "One of the Best 371 Colleges" by the Princeton Review and one of "America's Best Colleges" and one of "America's Best Private Colleges" by Forbes.com. In 2008 Centenary College celebrated 100 years in Shreveport and Bossier City.