More than 40 percent of all fatal car crashes in West Virginia were alcohol-relatedand 180 West Virginians lost their lives in alcohol-related vehicle accidentsin 2002.

To call attention to this deadly trend, the West Virginia University School of Community Medicine and University Health Services are holding Drinking and Driving Awareness Day Friday (Oct. 17).

The highlight of the event will be the Safety Bug, a 1999 Volkswagen Beetle modified to simulate DUI conditions. From 9 a.m.-2 p.m., students can take aridein the Bug at the Coliseum band parking lot.

Once behind the wheel, students will get to experience safely what it feels like to drive in an impaired state. A person in the front passenger seat controls settings that cause thedriverto lose control of the steering and brakes.

The event is free and open to the public. Area high school and college students, as well as employees from bars and restaurants, are encouraged to attend.

This year, there will be approximately 300 area high school students in attendance as well as WVU students. Students from the Community Medicine Student Association and peer education students will be assisting in this event to provide attendees with a hands-on experience to raise their awareness about the perils of drinking and driving,said Ruth Kershner, clinical assistant professor in WVU s Department of Community Medicine.

The Safety Bug also provides a valuable lesson for backseat passengers, who are able to visualize the helpless position they would be put in as a passenger in the vehicle of an impaired driver.

Were really excited about having the Safety Bug here. Its an extremely popular and highly effective educational tool that allows participants to experience the effects of alcohol on coordination and loss of control,said Kershner.

Drinking and Driving Awareness Day will feature additional educational information and activities. For more information, call 304-293-7440.