Program helps Sailors learn dangers of drunk driving

"We are here today to show people from a sober perspective how alcohol can affect certain things. There is a big problem with alcohol abuse nationwide and Navy-wide. By actually applying these skills in a simulated situation, we demonstrate what

can happen when driving impaired. Hopefully, the Sailors will benefit from this and will make the proper decision in the real world," said Brian Beldyga, co-founder of the "Save a Life Tour.

Safe-a-Life Instructer Brian Beldyga explains to QM3 Danny Herrea how his blood alcohol level affected his ability to drive after Herrea crashed into a police vehicle on the program.

"The simulator features new angles on drinking and driving and how alcohol affects reaction times, motor skills and how you can develop tunnel vision. We show all the hidden dangers. We act as a drunk friend in the front seat to give drivers the full effect," he continued. "Everything is like driving a real car, so after giving them all this information, they can't say the machine is making them make errors."

This virtual reality machine simulates what it would be like in the front seat of a car after drinking. Since people metabolize alcohol at a different rate, the simulator has 57 individual sensors in the seating area that determine the user's height and weight to provide accurate effects.

The interactive environment gives a 485-degree field of vision and is programmed to maneuver like a driver under the influence would, with increasing levels of impairment as the experience goes on. The user experiences unique challenges such as random traffic patterns, varying weather conditions and changes in route.

After participating in the simulation, AZ2 Kandace Howard remarked, "This program was very educational. I think anyone who drinks and drives needs to come to this so they can see it from a sober person's eyes. And, they can relive the pain of families who have lost children because of drunk drivers."

"It's a good program. I think it will keep a lot of people from driving drunk. They'll definitely think twice about it now," added CS3 Jeremy Gordon.

As a grim reminder of the potential fate of not only drunk drivers, but those who have been victims, there was an open casket on display as well as somber posters next to the simulator.

"No matter what, be a friend and take the keys before a tragedy occurs," stated Beldyga.