Risky driving has been a major issue in the United States for decades. According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel, over 37,000 people die in car accidents annually. 

This February, I volunteered with Punahou KEY Club and Roosevelt KEY Club, in cooperation with the Honolulu Police Department, to spread awareness about traffic safety. Together, we waved signs that warned drivers to avoid drunk or distracted driving and handed out pamphlets about pedestrian safety at a busy intersection in Chinatown. 

Photo courtesy of Punahou KEY Club

Marisa Nagata '18 summed up the volunteer experience and said, "Everyone who volunteered made the event fun by getting the cars to honk and wave to attract more attention to our message. It really is an important cause to spread because a lot of lives, of both pedestrians and drivers, are affected by dangerous driving."

Both drivers and pedestrians responded positively to our efforts by greeting us and encouraging us. One woman was really enthusiastic about what we were doing, and told us that she hoped our cause would make a much-needed difference in the community.

To be a part of this change, remember to drive safely!

For more information about traffic safety, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration here.