This is accomplished through awareness campaigns, education, school events/assemblies, and community involvement. Background Story:
On May 17, 2021, at only 16 years of age, Shea-Lynn McGaw’s life was tragically cut short suddenly and unexpectedly. She was killed in a single-vehicle roll-over just 10 minutes away from home when the young new driver lost control of the vehicle. Shea-Lynn, who was sitting in the back seat had just removed her seat belt minutes before to slide over and make room for her friend who was joining her in the back seat of the car. As they travelled along the gravel road heading home, something unexpectedly caused the vehicle to pull to the side of the road. In an attempt to respond to the situation, the inexperienced driver overcorrected, causing the vehicle to flip. It all happened in a matter of seconds and without any warning. Of the three people in the car, Shea-Lynn was the only one who had failed to re-secure her seat belt properly and was thrown from the vehicle and killed instantly when the vehicle landed on her. Her two friends who had their seat belts on walked away with minor injuries. The ripple effect was enormous for the community, bystanders, and first responders. Learning that Shea-Lynn was not secured within a restraint took everyone by surprise, as she was always a strong advocate for the use of a seat belt amongst her friends. The reasons behind the decision to not re-secure her seat belt that night remain unknown, but in hopes of preventing another family from having to experience a similar tragedy and to help keep Shea-Lynn’s loving spirit alive, the “Shea-Lynn’s Butterfly Effect” initiative was born. The goal is to not only increase awareness about seat belt safety but also encourage drivers of today to make safer choices while on the road. While parents know there is an inherent risk associated with their teens beginning to drive, many parents are unaware of the true statistics and risks associated with the choices being made by kids today. Here are some things that you should know:
1) 1 in 4 youth openly admit that they do not consistently wear their seatbelt when they are with their peers. Parents, talk to your kids regularly about the importance of wearing a seat belt, every trip, every time.
2) The use of a seat belt is the single most effective way to protect yourself and your passengers in a crash. Always make sure everyone is buckled up BEFORE the vehicle is in motion and that seat belts remain secured until the vehicle has stopped.
3) There are many myths and misperceptions that contribute to the reasons why one may choose to not wear a seatbelt. Take the time to ask and have an honest conversation about the facts. By addressing the real reasons, maybe you can save a life.
4) Parents, the responsibility is on us. Take the time to have the discussions and set clear road safety expectations, but most importantly, never forget to model the correct behaviour. Youth tell me all the time that they are learning from what they see their parents do. Make sure they are receiving the message of safety first.
5) Parents, empower your teen(s) to set clear expectations when driving with their friends. Let them know that it is okay to have non-negotiable rules in the car and help them problem solve how to address situations where they might experience resistance.
6) Driving comes with great responsibility. Tomorrow is not promised, but it is impacted by the choices made today. Drive responsibly. Drinking and driving, distracted driving, speed, and aggressive driving kill. It’s not worth your life or your passenger’s life.
7) Car crashes are the leading cause of death for youth 16-25 years of age with 80% of all fatalities occurring with a similarly aged driver. Many other Provinces have established restrictions limiting the number of passengers allowed with new drivers, but Alberta does not. Consider implementing your own household restrictions to assist your teen with the transition of learning to drive independently.
8) Lastly, one must never let their guard down when it comes to road safety! It is so easy to settle into bad habits because you think it will never happen to you. That is what we thought. That is what Shea-Lynn thought. But it did happen and continues to happen. Be selfish with your safety and be prepared at all times by buckling up. You never know when the circumstances of the road will change. Shea-Lynn was known for her bright smile and “Be Strong, Never Give Up” attitude. And with this, we, her parents will not have her story end here. One of her friends even told her a couple of months before the accident that he saw her as the type of person that would make a huge impact in the world. He texted her a message saying that she “would be someone who would save lives”. So, in her honour, in memory of Shea-Lynn, help her save lives. Help us to celebrate her life by joining the movement to spread awareness. Sponsorship is welcome so that we can reach more people. We are driven to make a difference!
