This week, read the article titled Texting_Teenagers_PSA, about texting and public service announcements.

THEN, watch this PSA from the United Kingdom (warning – it is pretty jarring). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0LCmStIw9E

It has been watched more than 2 million times.

Knowing what you do from reading Chapter 11, about PSAs and teenagers (page 337), and after reading the article, would you think this PSA from the police department would be effective? More effective than the anti-drug ads in the article? Why or why not? Also, some have said this should be shown in high schools, or in teen driving classes, but others have found it too gruesome. Would you have this required viewing for teen drivers (or those about to become drivers?) If so, why? If not, why not?  THREE meaningful posts each for points. Maybe you have viewed other videos regarding behavior adults want kids to avoid. Share them and your reasons for doing so. There is a phone app I use, DriveSafeMode, to block texts and phone calls while I am driving.

“People who read or write text messages while driving are 23 percent more likely to be involved in a car crash than other drivers.

The US Department of Transportation notes that the use of cell phones while driving plays a role in 1.6 million auto crashes each year, causing 500,000 injuries and 6,000 deaths.” (Verizon news)