Gatlinburg Fire, Police to Conduct Mock Crash at Gatlinburg Pittman High School

The City of Gatlinburg Fire and Police Departments are conducting a mock crash scenario at Gatlinburg Pittman High School on Monday, May 15, 2017. The mock crash aims to send a hard-hitting reminder of the dangers and consequences of unsafe driving behaviors—such as drinking and driving, not buckling up, and texting while driving.

The agencies are also using the event to remind parents, grandparents and caregivers about the importance to talk with their teen to reinforce teen driving laws, and to set their own family driving rules.

The mock crash uses real crashed vehicles set up on school grounds and student participants to dramatically act out roles as crash victims. The school’s juniors and seniors will watch the demonstration and learn how emergency responders conduct rescue efforts in real-time. Parents are also invited and encouraged to attend.

Participating in the event are the Gatlinburg Fire Department, Gatlinburg Police Department, and University of Tennessee Lifestar Aeromedical Services.

“This mock crash provides a realistic look at the serious and horrifying consequences of distracted driving,” said Sargeant Sharon Atchley, Gatlinburg Police Department. “The demonstrations help encourage students not to drive under the influence and will give students more awareness of the dangers of distracted driving.”

One-third of all alcohol-related teen traffic deaths occur between April and June, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, with vehicle accidents ranking as the top cause of death for those between 12 and 19 years old. In fact, 1,000 young people die annually during prom, spring break and graduations celebrations, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.