As I mentioned in my last column, I will be discussing issues that affect my teen community.
As many of us have reached the legal driving age and are excited about getting our licenses, we must be aware of the dangers that can be associated with this responsibility. This month, the Roslyn Community honors the three year anniversary when two of our shining stars were killed by a drunk driver.
On the evening of May 3, 2023, my world was shattered as two of my best friends, Ethan Falkowitz and Drew Hassenbein were killed as they were returning from a school tennis match. The loss of these two dynamic, special friends had a huge impact on my school and on my life. Turning tragedy into action, I joined my school’s “Students Against Destructive Decisions Club in order to promote safe practices among drivers.
This year alone, it was reported that there were over 12,000 fatalities due to drunk driving. Alcohol has been known to create a false sense of confidence. Drivers feel that they are in control, yet in reality alcohol impairs judgement, affects coordination and may slow one’s reaction time.
Organizations such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving provide glasses which simulate impaired vision due to drunk driving. Having tried these glasses myself, it was even difficult to walk in a straight line. This underscored the dangers of driving while intoxicated.
There are safe alternatives to driving drunk such as: having a designated driver, ride-share apps, calling a sober friend or adult, or staying over at a person’s house.
Driving drunk is a gamble with traumatizing consequences.
Unfortunately my friends were victims of a man who chose a destructive decision to drive while under the influence of alcohol. Looking out for your friends is important. Sometimes being a good friend means stepping in and saying, “You’re not driving tonight.” So as we celebrate becoming drivers, we must act responsibly and keep Ethan and Drew in our thoughts.
Remember drunk driving is a choice and can be easily prevented.
Source: LI Press
