*This list provided by ICBC references licensed driving schools in Richmond British Columbia: https://partners.icbc.com/driver-training/driver-training-resources/glp-schools *
Photo Credit: Street Sense
Drive Treck Driving Academy: A GLP Program
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Hi Readers,
I am Chen Le, I represent as the Animal Ambassador for the GLP program at Drive Treck Driving Academy!
1. What inspired you to become an animal ambassador for promoting road safety among new drivers?
Chen Le, The Animal Ambassador:
Because a significant number of animals die in car accidents each year, though there has been some improvement in recent years, the number remains alarmingly high around the world. Animal deaths from collisions with vehicles have surpassed hunting, with roadkill becoming one of the leading causes of death for terrestrial vertebrates. It is estimated that more than 340 million birds are killed on U.S. roads every year, which equates to one animal being tragically involved in a car accident every 12 seconds.
2. How do you plan to use your role as an animal ambassador to effectively raise awareness about road safety and its impact on wildlife?
Chen Le, The Animal Ambassador:
As the ambassador, I could collaborate with driving schools to incorporate specific modules on wildlife safety into their curriculum, ensuring that new drivers are educated on this important issue from the start. Additionally, we could organize interactive workshops or virtual events where we share real-life stories and experiences related to wildlife encounters on the road, further emphasizing the need for responsible driving practices.
3. Can you share a specific idea or project you have in mind to engage and educate new learners about the importance of being mindful of wildlife while driving?
Chen Le, The Animal Ambassador:
I plan to create a game that raises people’s awareness when they encounter animals crossing the road unexpectedly. The game will begin with a video showcasing the number of animals killed by cars over the years, followed by the actual gameplay. In the game, players will be driving, and there will be small animals crossing the road. The objective is to stop in time and avoid hitting them.
But before my invention, allow me to introduce you to an innovative tool that’s revolutionizing the way we approach road safety: Street Sense.
Street Sense is developed through a collaborative effort between ICBC, the B.C. government, TELUS, and Project Whitecard, Street Sense is more than just an app—it’s a state-of-the-art hazard perception training program designed to sharpen your awareness of potential dangers on the road.
Picture this: you’re behind the wheel, navigating through the streets of British Columbia. Suddenly, you encounter a busy intersection, cyclists sharing the road, or the blind spots of large vehicles. These are the moments where split-second decisions can make all the difference.
Street Sense is about understanding the importance of hazard perception and developing the real-world abilities to keep yourself and others safe on the road. Try it out if you are curious about this game.
