Students drive drunk in simulator
Alison Wurtz
Issue date: 10/26/05 Section: News
Several LHU students drove under the influence Thursday - legally.
Safe Haven and the Wellness Center sponsored a simulator that gave students an idea of what it would be like operating a vehicle after consuming alcoholic beverages as part of National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week.
Students who participated "drove" a car controlled by a computer that gradually increased the number of "drinks" consumed.
The drivers operated a seemingly real automobile, complete with gas and brake pedals, a steering wheel and a speedometer.
The more drinks that were added, the harder it became to steer and see clearly.
Most students began to have trouble at two drinks, and by five the majority had completely lost control of their vehicle.
Junior Troy Hartle said the simulator was a positive way for students to understand the risk involved in drinking and driving.
"You have to experience the simulator to know how effective it is," Troy said. "It's an absolutely wonderful educational experience."
The simulator was just part of an entire week dedicated to educating students on the effects of alcohol use.
Other events included a candle-light vigil and "Bash the Car," which took place on Russell Lawn Friday afternoon.
Senior Emilee Gulas said Safe Haven sponsors National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week every year in order to "reach out to the students."
Safe Haven and the Wellness Center sponsored a simulator that gave students an idea of what it would be like operating a vehicle after consuming alcoholic beverages as part of National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week.
Students who participated "drove" a car controlled by a computer that gradually increased the number of "drinks" consumed.
The drivers operated a seemingly real automobile, complete with gas and brake pedals, a steering wheel and a speedometer.
The more drinks that were added, the harder it became to steer and see clearly.
Most students began to have trouble at two drinks, and by five the majority had completely lost control of their vehicle.
Junior Troy Hartle said the simulator was a positive way for students to understand the risk involved in drinking and driving.
"You have to experience the simulator to know how effective it is," Troy said. "It's an absolutely wonderful educational experience."
The simulator was just part of an entire week dedicated to educating students on the effects of alcohol use.
Other events included a candle-light vigil and "Bash the Car," which took place on Russell Lawn Friday afternoon.
Senior Emilee Gulas said Safe Haven sponsors National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week every year in order to "reach out to the students."
