Mercy Academy students learn valuable lessons during drunk driving demonstration

Mercy Academy students had a first-hand look at the dangers of impaired driving during a recent live demonstration hosted in partnership with area first responders and community organizations. The demonstration, the first of its kind held at Mercy, was presented on March 12 as part of Mercy's annual Peer Leader Week, an initiative that educates students on the dangers of drugs and alcohol.

The demonstration was hosted by the Louisville Metro Police Department's (LMPD) Traffic Unit, in partnership with the Louisville Fire Department (LFD), Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and T.I.E.S./Borden Mortuary Service. The scene of a drunk driving accident was staged, featuring two vehicles from a local impound lot. First responders arrived on the scene with lights and sirens, and two Mercy students played the parts of a drunk driver and a deceased driver.

LMPD and LFD guided students through a narrated scenario, explaining the procedures followed at every accident scene. Using their hydraulic rescue tool (jaws of life), they extricated the student portraying the victim and placed her in a body bag. They also conducted a sobriety test with the student playing the role of the drunk driver. In total, around 350 students attended the demonstration.

"Our goal was not to scare students but to educate and teach them about the real life choices we all make and the dangers of drinking and driving," said Angie Laemmle, Director of Student Life at Mercy Academy. "There are consequences from driving impaired and these are life-changing events. We believe that knowledge is power, and seeing a real life scenario will really hit home with students so when they are making choices in life, they will think twice."

Following the demonstration, students listened to a presentation from longtime MADD volunteer Theresa Martinez. A past parent at Mercy Academy, Martinez's daughter was killed by a drunk driver in 2012.

Other activities during Peer Leader Week included video presentations highlighting the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Students also participated in drunk simulation goggle exercises, where they attempted tasks like walking a straight line or drawing a circle on paper to experience the effects of impairment.

"These are simple tasks but the goggles show how just one simple task is altered with the effects of drinking or using drugs," Laemmle said. "The drunk driving simulation was a natural fit into this week for students."

Laemmle said she hopes that the activities and presentations during Peer Leader Week left a lasting impression on students, encouraging them to make responsible decisions.

"This is such an important week as we are heading into Spring Break," she said. "We hope to make a meaningful impact for our students."