What started as a school project for two Barrie sisters has turned into a push to improve awareness about the biggest factors behind crashes in Ontario.
Emmily and Maggie Bradley have created the campaign known as “Project C.R.A.S.H.” It stands for “Cherish Roads and Safe Highways.”
“The idea behind the project was to raise awareness of the 'Big 4' driving errors, which include aggressive driving, impaired driving, distracted driving and driving without seatbelts,” says Maggie.
The second-year Georgian College students designed the signs and car stickers for a project in the police foundations course. But their goals have now expanded beyond the classroom.
“Our short term goal is to get them posted on all seven campuses for Georgian College; to hit that student demographic new drivers,” says Emmily. “Our long term goal is to bring awareness to everybody. So get them posted on our roadways and highways.”
Hundreds die every year as a result of the “Big 4.” The Bradley sisters understand how devastating it can be. One of their best friends didn't and now must live with the consequences.
“She unfortunately got behind the wheel while intoxicated. She got into a car accident and it broke her leg in two places,” Emmily says. “She had serious back injuries and it did sever ties with her family.”
Emmily and Maggie have plans to eventually contact Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation, but before that happens they're busy gathering local support and preparing presentations for Simcoe County, Orillia and Barrie councils.
