A Sobering Look at the Consequences of Drunk Driving

A graphic and realistic portrayal of an alcohol-related traffic fatality was enacted at Agoura High School on Thursday. The school, in conjunction with the California Highway Patrol, presented Every 15 Minutes, an emotionally charged program designed to dramatically instill teenagers with the potentially dangerous consequences of drinking alcohol. 

The program title comes from the sobering statistic that every 15 minutes, someone in the United States dies from an alcohol-related traffic collision, said event co-chair Jill Misel.

As part of a two-day presentation, a very realistic traffic accident scene is re-created, complete with ambulances, fire trucks, law enforcement and the coroner.

The program concludes on Friday with a mock memorial service for the students and teacher "killed" in the simulation.

"This is the closest we can get to real life without, thankfully, losing our students," said Kristen Marsilio, assistant principal. "For [the students] to see the impact of decisions they make every day about drinking and driving but also driving while distracted is so important."

The program is held every two years and rotates amongst the high schools in Calabasas and Malibu.

Click here to watch the entire event unfold on video.