Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin today released a new public service announcement (PSA) on the dangers of drunk driving. Featuring a striking, black and white aesthetic and equally striking statistics on the prevalence and deadliness of drunk driving, the PSA uses young people who are not actors to add greater authenticity to the message it delivers.
According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an average of 28 people are killed in drunk driving accidents every day. In addition, according to MADD and the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the rates of drunk driving are highest among 21 to 25-year-olds, and one in ten teenagers drives drunk, according to the CDC. Attorney General Kilmartin wanted to address this hazardous and widespread problem, with a special focus on the young drivers who are less experienced behind the wheel and don't always consider the consequences of their actions.
"Drunk driving is easily prevented, yet remains far too common, especially among younger drivers," says Attorney General Kilmartin. "This public service announcement will hopefully demonstrate to its viewers, especially our young viewers, the severe and deadly dangers of drunk driving."
The PSA was conceptualized by Austin McCarthy-Kelley, an intern in the Office of Attorney General currently attending Wheaton College, where he is majoring in Film and New Media Studies. McCarthy-Kelley also wrote the script, provided direction to its performers, and edited the PSA. This PSA was produced at no cost to the State, as it was filmed, performed, and edited using equipment already in the Office's possession.
"The PSA highlights the strength of our internship program and the opportunities afforded to those who participate," says Attorney General Kilmartin. "Our Internship Program provides students with the opportunity to learn, network, and participate in the day-to-day-workings of the Office of Attorney General. Our program further allows students to extend their knowledge beyond the classroom and gives them the chance to apply that knowledge to the real world."
Attorney General Kilmartin will use social media to circulate the PSA, including Twitter, YouTube, and the Office's email newsletter and website. Media interested in airing the PSA may do so with the permission of the Office of Attorney General.