HAMMOND – An advocate for cell-phone free driving spoke recently at Hammond Central, Lisbon Central, Potsdam Central and Edwards-Knox High School to explain possible consequences of distracted driving.

Jacy Good spoke to help students understand the consequences of driving while distracted.

In May 2008, on the day she graduated from college, a cell phone distracted driver ran a red light and caused a crash that killed both of Jacy’s parents and left her clinging to life.

“Jacy’s story resonated with our students, as it does with many teens and young adults,” said Karen Carswell, principal at Hammond Central. “Car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens, so it is very important for them to understand how they can be as safe as possible behind the wheel. Using a cell phone while driving is extremely distracting and never should be done while operating a multi-ton vehicle.”

“What was supposed to be the happiest day of my life turned into my worst nightmare,” said Good. “People need to understand the dangers of using a cell phone -handheld or hands-free – while driving. My parents are gone and my life has been changed forever because of a driver who chose a cell phone conversation over safety. People need to understand what’s at risk and that their actions have life-long consequences.”

After the loss of her parents, Good joined FocusDriven – Advocates for Cell-Free Driving, a national nonprofit group that supports cell phone distracted driving victims and their families and provides opportunities for those families to educate the public by sharing their stories. FocusDriven has partnered with the National Safety Council through a grant awarded by the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee to provide Good’s presentations in schools across the state.

Those interested in having Good speak at their school should email srotoolkit@dmv.ny.gov.