In an effort to bring awareness to the dangers of distracted driving, a driving simulator experience will be available from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday in the front lobby at DMACC. Sponsored by the Newton Police Department in partnership with the Iowa Governors Traffic Safety Bureau and DMACC, the simulator will give a first hand look at the danger of driving while distracted.
“Distracted driving is becoming a major issue around the country and specifically in Newton. When we analyzed our accidents we found that most occurred on or around First Avenue. When you break down why they happened it is because people are driving inattentively and they end up rear-ending someone else or running a red light,” Police Chief Rob Burdess said. “It is not a matter of going too fast or doing other things, literally they are distracted by businesses, people walking, other cars and maybe texting or eating. When you have a congested downtown it kind of lends itself to a higher opportunity to have an accident.”
The simulator consists of three computer screens with a steering wheel and gas and brake petals. The participant will drive on a mock street in several different distracted situations including with a phone or other obstacles.
“It gives you an opportunity to see what the challenges are and to really see how much you are distracted while driving and how that effects your driving and makes it unsafe,” Burdess said.
Adding elements such as impairment goggles will also give the feeling of being intoxicated while driving and how that increases obstacles while distracted.
Newton police officers will also be on hand to pass out informational pamphlets and answer any questions the public may have about traffic safety or the Newton Police Department.
Contact Jamee A. Pierson at
641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com