The Foundation

Virginia Teen Driver Safety PSA Contest

Sponsored by: State Farm®

The American Traffic Safety Services Foundation (ATSS Foundation) is launching its first ever Virginia teen driver safety video contest through a grant from State Farm®. Five Virginia high schools have been chosen to participate in this pilot program. Students are invited to submit a 30-60 second public service announcement (PSA) encouraging teens to respect other drivers and focus on safe driving behavior, which includes no distractions, no drinking and no speeding while they are behind the wheel.

Children and young adults are the most frequent victims of fatal car crashes. In fact, roadway crashes are the leading cause of death for people age 5-24. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among U.S. teens. The reason for these staggering statistics is that many teen drivers don’t wear seat belts, sometimes drive drunk, are more likely to text message and pursue other behaviors that reduce safe driving practices.

The American Traffic Safety Services Foundation’s mission is to promote education and public awareness of roadway safety through public safety programs and charitable giving. The purpose of the Virginia teen driver safety PSA contest is to provide a real-world learning tool for young Virginians who are about to get their driver’s license and for those who have already obtained a valid driver’s license in the State. By preparing a PSA, students will learn to develop a message using a video camera to show what they know about safe driving and how to encourage other teens to drive safely.
Videos should reflect safe driving practices – key actions teen drivers and passengers can take to promote safe driving behaviors, including

unplugging from distractions such as talking on cell phones and texting,driving posted speed limits,
using seat belts
and sober driving.

Submissions will be judged using the following criteria: presentation, message and creativity. Prizes will be awarded to the overall top three submissions. Winning teams will receive cash prizes – 1st place team wins $1,000, 2nd place team wins $750 and 3rd place team wins $500, with a $500 prize awarded to each winning teams’ school.