Montpelier, Vt. — On Friday, Governor Phil Scott and the Vermont Highway Safety Alliance (VHSA) will announce the winners of the “#802PHONESDOWNHEADSUP!” public service announcement (PSA) video contest and award prizes to the student videographers.
The contest aims to increase awareness about the need to avoid distracted driving, specifically the use of electronic devices, which is one of the most pervasive forms of distracted driving, particularly among drivers aged 15 to 29. In Vermont, texting and hand-held use of an electronic device while operating a motor vehicle are both illegal, yet between 2013 and 2017, there were at least 957 crashes statewide known to have been caused by distracted drivers.
“We all have a responsibility to put down our phones and pay attention while driving to keep ourselves and others safe on Vermont roads,” said Governor Scott. “Thank you to all the students who participated in this contest and congratulations to the winning videographers.”
The statewide video contest was open to high school students who were challenged to create a 25-second PSA video that encourages drivers to avoid distracted driving. The first-place winner will be awarded $750, second-place $500, third-place $250 and people’s choice $500.
“Safety is a central and vital part of the mission of our Agency,” said Transportation Secretary Joe Flynn. “Many people on our staff work hard every day to help keep drivers safe on Vermont roads and to educate the public about the extreme danger of distracted driving. Public safety is always a top priority.”
The award ceremony will be held in the Cedar Creek Room of the State House on Friday, May 10 from 11:00 - 11:30 a.m. and is open to the public. Speakers will include Governor Scott and VHSA Vice Chair Mitchell Jay. Secretary Flynn and James Lockridge of the Vermont Youth Safety Council will also attend.
For more information, visit http://vermonthighwaysafety.org/psa-video-contest/
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