Seeing is believing. At least that’s what the state police who patrol Illinois toll roads are counting on in a new anti-drunken driving campaign that uses high-tech goggles and a golf cart to illustrate the effects of operating a vehicle while under the influence.
The Partnership to Reduce Intoxicated Student Motorists, or PRISM, uses so-called fatal vision goggles on participants to simulate intoxication with a blood-alcohol level of 0.16, twice the legal limit. Participants are then directed to drive a golf court on a course to see how much their skills are impaired.
With the goggles affecting coordination and balance, public safety officials believe it will teach people of all ages why it’s important not to drink and drive.
“That’s why this program is so wonderful,” said State Trooper Doug Whitmore. “It’s highly interactive.”
The program has been used in other parts of the state, Whitmore said. Though data was not available on the program’s success, Whitmore said anecdotal information indicated it has had a positive impact on students.
Illinois State Police District 15, which covers the tollway’s 274-mile system, hopes to take the program to driving schools throughout the Chicago area. In addition, officials hope to make PRISM available to corporations.
United Parcel Service’s Addison-based regional office has donated $3,000 to the program and may let its employees take it, said Felix Sasso, an employee relations manager for the company. Although drunken driving has not been a problem at UPS, Sasso said PRISM could enhance defensive-driving techniques and serve as a valuable reminder.
“You go out at night and you might have an extra beer or a glass of wine not thinking that it does impair you,” he said. “Understanding what the consequences are will make all of us a little more knowledgeable about the challenges that face us.”
More Top Picks Best Smart Bulbs For Bedrooms