Deer Park HS Holds Teen Safe Driving Event

Deer Park High School recently hosted a “Battle of the Belts” safety event to draw attention to the importance of using seat belts. 

Held in conjunction with May’s Global Youth Traffic Safety Month, as part of “Teen Crashes GTG (Got to Go),” a joint initiative of the NYS Department of Health, National Safety Council and the NYS Teen Safe Driving Coalition, the event featured information, demonstrations and the student “Battle of the Belts” seat belt safety team competition.  

The entire program was developed and directed by Huntington-resident Lucy Weinstein, MD, MPH, director of pediatric injury prevention and control for Winthrop Community Hospital.  Weinstein hopes that through awareness and state legislation, the use of seatbelts amongst teens will increase, directly leading to a decrease in injuries and tragedies.

“Right now in New York State, only those under the age of 16 are required to wear seat belts in the back seats of motor vehicles,” Weinstein said in a press release. “We are hoping that New York State will pass a universal seat belt law. We are also working towards implementing successful initiatives both in New York and New Jersey.”

County Legis. Lou D'Amaro was among those on hand at the Deer Park High School event to show his support. 

D'Amaro reminded students of the importance of avoiding distracted driving and pledging to turn off their cell phones when operating vehicles.