JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- It's dangerous driving week here on Action News. Today we look at a computer program that is helping educate students and adults on the dangers of distracted and drunk driving.
There are only two distracted and drunk driving simulators in Florida, and we've got one right here in the River City at our local AAA.
It looks like just another fun video game, but it serves the higher purpose of education.
"There's several different programs on there," AAA spokeman Bill Bishop said. "We can do a simulation of drunk driving. We can do distracted driving."
During the distracted driver program, your passenger asks you to make phone calls and text while trying to navigate the road at the same time. The impaired driver program makes navigating the streets more difficult.
"It's a full program where you hear the sirens, policeman is knocking on your window."
Depending on the severity of the crash, you could wind up in the hospital. But that's not the end.
"You end up in court. The judge sentences you. And it's a very powerful statement."
AAA says the feedback has been good.
"The people that take it say it's very powerful, and it makes them think. I took it myself -- opened my eyes."
AAA has taken this into schools and even to NAS Jax, but they said any group that feels like they could benefit from the program should call. AAA will come and set it up for you and let you keep it for a week or two, depending on how long you need it.
The driving simulator is free to use, just call your local AAA office to book it.
