“Let’s Not Meet By Accident” Program Delivers Powerful Safe Driving Message to JE Students

Yesterday morning, more than 150 juniors and seniors at Jordan-Elbridge High School participated in the powerful “Let’s Not Meet By Accident” Mock Distracted Driving Crash program, an impactful educational experience designed to help students understand the real-life consequences of unsafe decisions behind the wheel.

The program, presented by Upstate Trauma Center, has been educating young drivers for nearly 30 years through an evidence-based combination of classroom presentations and a realistic mock crash and rescue scenario. Students learned national, state and local statistics related to motor vehicle crashes involving teens and gained a deeper understanding of the dangers associated with distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, failure to wear seatbelts and unsafe passenger behavior.

Throughout the morning, students heard firsthand from trauma professionals, emergency responders and community leaders before witnessing a dramatic simulated crash that demonstrated how one poor decision can lead to devastating and life-changing consequences.

A particularly meaningful part of the experience came after the mock crash, when one student participated in a live arraignment made possible by Judge George Betts and the New York State Police. The courtroom experience offered students a sobering look at the legal ramifications that can follow unsafe choices behind the wheel.

The goal of the program is simple but vital: to prevent tragedy before it happens. Organizers hope the experience inspires students to make responsible decisions every time they get behind the wheel—not just during prom and ball season, but throughout their lives.

Jordan-Elbridge Central School District extends sincere appreciation to the many agencies and individuals who helped make this important event possible, including Jordan Fire Department, Elbridge Fire Department, the New York State Police – Elbridge Barracks, Judge George Betts, Bush Funeral Home and LifeNet of New York.

Special thanks also to Michael R. Jorolemon and the team at Upstate Trauma Center for leading this life-saving program.

Together, education, prevention and strong community partnerships can save lives.