Rusk high school students learn the dangers of drunk driving through mock accident

RUSK, Texas (KETK)- Students at Rusk ISD were exposed to the reality of how drinking and driving can change a life forever and the consequences that follow getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. The mock accident was created through the efforts of the Rusk Fire Department, UT Health, Wallace Thompson Funeral Home, Issacs Wrecker Service, and Cherokee County's Sheriff's Office. "I really got to see, like, how much this can impact you for the rest of your life," junior Allison Buckholt said. Students lined up at the edge of the parking lot and watched as first responders arrived on the scene. Their classmates enacted the victims and also portrayed a pretend fatality. "We want to kind of educate them on what can happen if they choose to go out this weekend and get drunk and drive," Rusk Assistant Fire Chief Brandon Holcomb said.  The event was held just days before Rusk's prom night to encourage students to make responsible choices. "That could very well be something that happens," student Zach Adams said. "And I hope and pray it doesn't this weekend." The students also heard from an inmate who said it took only 10 minutes to ruin his life. "He was just like talking with an extreme remorse," Buckholt said. "I feel like that was one of the most impactful parts of the presentation because I really got to see, like, how much this can impact you for the rest of your life." Students witnessed a casket serving as a symbol that making smart decisions could not only save their own lives but also the lives of others.