misc distracteddriver

FROM MPI: Distracted driving contributes to nearly 1 in 4 fatal collisions in Manitoba. Young drivers (ages 16 to 24) account for 18% of all collisions on Manitoba roads, but are involved in nearly 30% of those collisions that involve distracted driving.

Young drivers across the province are currently wrapping up production of home video projects for an MPI safety contest. Adam Cheadle from Manitoba Public Insurance tells us they have encouraged youth to pick up their video cameras to draw attention to impaired driving, speeding and aggressive driving, and distracted driving. He says the idea is to also create peer to peer conversations about these issues, because young drivers (ages 16 to 24) are involved in nearly 25% of all collisions in our province each year. Cheadle points out young people can get really excited about making 1 to 3 minute videos and they encourage anyone to give it a shot.

He explains the videos that have been submitted so far are good and soon we will all be able to view them on YouTube. The deadline for entries is April 1st and the winners will be announced to an audience of road safety professionals from across North America in early May.

In total there is over $28,000 in prizes to be won. There is also an opportunity for school's to be recognized. Students can identify a staff or faculty member on their entry form and if they win first prize in one of the 3 categories the school will receive a $2000 honorarium.

MPI has provided a few tips for creating a quality 1-3 minute video.

#1 -  Write a script that will change the way youth think about these issues. Drive home the message that these actions are illegal and dangerous.
Then, film your video.

- Keep the camera steady. Use a tripod if possible.
- Set the white balance every time you change locations.
- If your camera has manual focus, use it.
- Avoid zooming or panning when recording. Only move the camera when necessary.
- Use different angles for every scene – wide, medium, close-ups, from above, eye-level, below – move around and mix it up.
- Follow the ten second rule when recording – aim to get about 10 seconds of each shot. You will be grateful for this in the editing suite.
- Don't centre everything – place your subject off-centre for a more artistic and interesting visual.
- Use an external mic if possible. If you have to rely on the camera's mic, pay close attention to where it's pointed and who is talking. Viewers should not have to strain to hear what is being said.
- Make sure your subject(s) are well lit.
- Have fun!

For full contest details be sure to visit the Rethink Road Safety Contest site.