Elk Grove Hosting 'Moment of Impact' Program to Educate Local Youth About Distracted, Impaired Driving Consequences

The following is a news release from the Elk Grove Police Department: 

Deadly car crashes are the number one killer until the age of 34, with teens being at the most risk.  That’s why the Elk Grove Police Department, the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office and the California Office of Traffic Safety have teamed up to educate Elk Grove’s youth about important driver safety messages.  

Every month, families and friends are devastated for a lifetime over the loss of someone they care about that was in a collision caused by distractions or impairments. These collisions are 100% preventable. 

A special presentation of the award-winning program, “Moment of Impact” will be held on Nov. 12 to focus on the "impact" after making a selfish decision behind the wheel. The consequences for passengers when riding with a driver making bad driving decisions is also addressed.  

The 90-minute presentation will be begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Elk Grove City Council Chambers at 8400 Laguna Palms Way.  The session will cover hard-hitting  feature stories, photos, clothing, and even the actual vehicle two vibrant and dynamic brothers were in when an impaired driver crossed  into their lane and killed them. They were innocent victims.  

"Moment of Impact" educates teens and adults on the effects of making bad decisions in a car, and is offered throughout the year to service clubs, community organizations, and Sacramento County high schools. The information shared over the last seven years has received national/statewide recognition/awards, and has been featured in many newspaper articles and numerous television interviews. Feedback from attendees is overwhelmingly positive with many stating they will never look at riding in a car the same way as before. 

Seating is limited.  To reserve a spot, contact Officer Jorge Benitez (916) 478-8125 or jbenitez@elkgrovepd.org.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.