On Friday, April 19, 2024, Eastern View High School (EVHS) hosted a powerful simulation event aimed at educating students about the grave consequences of drinking and driving, just a day before their much-anticipated prom night. Organized by Master Deputy Chris Williams of the Culpeper County Sheriff's Office, the simulation brought together various stakeholders including law enforcement, first responders, and Found and Sons funeral home to create a realistic portrayal of a car crash scene.
The event, which took place in the EVHS stadium parking lot, featured EVHS Theatre students who played the roles of the drunk driver and accident victims, showcasing the harrowing aftermath of a drunk driving collision. The simulation aimed to drive home the message that one poor decision to drink and drive can lead to devastating consequences not only for the driver but also for innocent victims and their families.
Master Deputy Chris Williams emphasized the importance of such initiatives in raising awareness among young drivers. "Prom night is supposed to be a memorable and joyous occasion for students, but it can quickly turn tragic if alcohol is involved," said Master Deputy Williams. "Our goal with this mock car crash is to show students the stark reality of what could happen if they make the dangerous choice to get behind the wheel while intoxicated."
Throughout the simulation, students witnessed first hand the rapid response of emergency services, including Culpeper County Sheriff's deputies, Culpeper County EMS, and firefighters, who arrived at the scene to provide aid to the injured and assess the situation. Found and Sons Funeral Home also participated, underscoring the ultimate consequences of irresponsible behavior on the road.
Principal Nate Bopp expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort in organizing the event. "As educators, it's our responsibility to not only provide academic knowledge but also to impart important life lessons to our students," said Dr. Bopp. "Events like these serve as a sobering reminder of the real-life dangers associated with drinking and driving, and we hope it will encourage our students to make safe choices, especially during prom and graduation season."
The event included juniors and seniors at the high school, and is conducted every other year, alternating with Culpeper County High School, so that all students will experience the event once during their high school career.
Culpeper County Public Schools and the Culpeper County Sheriff's Office urge the entire community to prioritize safety and responsibility at all times, not just on prom night. By making smart choices and avoiding alcohol-related risks, students can ensure that prom night, graduation night, and other celebrations remain positive experiences for everyone involved.