'Accident' shows risk of drinking and driving

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A simulation of an alcohol-related traffic accident Thursday produced by Notre Dame Regional High School seniors brought home the message to the students that drinking and driving don't mix.

The docudrama's name, "Every 15 Minutes," is based on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's calculation that one person is killed in an alcohol-related traffic accident every 15 minutes.

The two-car "accident" had already occurred on the school's property by the time student body of more than 480 arrived at Notre Dame Drive. One car was overturned with several students still inside. Outside, one injured boy lay moaning, his face and body covered with fake blood and bruises. The accident caused two "fatalities." The driver of one car was slumped over at the wheel. Another girl lay dead on the street, also bathed in blood.

"Everyone saw it as an event that could really happen," said senior J.P. Thompson.

"It was really powerful," said senior Keith Holland, who portrayed a shaken but uninjured victim. He said the light mood of the students in the accident simulation quickly turned to a feeling of tragedy and panic as police sirens pierced the air and rescue squads pried victims from the cars.

"I even started crying," Holland said.

Afterward, Cape Girardeau police Cpl. Alvin Spencer talked to students about drinking and driving.

The white-painted faces in the audience were Notre Dame seniors who had been selected to "die" every 15 minutes throughout the day to represent those in the country who die in alcohol-related car accidents. Students and parents granted permission to participate in the activity.

Once killed, the students painted their faces white and returned to class. For the remainder of the day they did not participate in classroom activities or discussions with friends or family.

Further, the "dead" students were housed overnight away from their families and friends, said Linda Meadows, school counselor and SADD coordinator. During their stay away from home each wrote a letter telling their parents how they feel about them. Some of the letters will be read at an assembly today.

"They are heart-wrenching to hear," Spencer said.

carel@semissourian.com

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