La Mesa Police Department and AT&T Host Distracted Driving Event at Helix High School

New research shows that 7-in-10 people engage in smartphone activities while driving. It’s no longer safe to assume that people are just texting from behind the wheel; it involves taking selfies, watching videos and checking social media.

On Thursday, March 30, AT&T pioneers and La Mesa Police Department held an event at Helix High School, showcasing to local students the dangers of distracted driving through a virtual reality simulator. Using VR glasses, headphones and a screen, the AT&T It Can Wait Virtual Reality Simulator enabled students to experience a simulation of texting and driving. Students not only experienced close calls, but also an accident in the process.

More than 150 Helix High School students got to test out the simulator during the morning, enjoying the interaction and pedal simulators, all while learning about the dangers of texting and driving. In addition, La Mesa Police Department provided details about the current laws of driving and showcased goggle simulators for impaired driving.

Athena Hernandez, chairperson and Staff Associate TFS San Diego Central & SD Pioneer Council Secretary, Area Manager External Affairs John Osborne and other local employees and volunteers attended the event.