Bothell, WA – Auto crashes remain the number one killer of our nation’s youth. The percentage of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes continues to be higher than any other age group of drivers across the country. Alcohol is involved in 2 out of every 5 motor vehicle fatalities in the United States.

Teens were given a simulated "view" today of how a blood alcohol concentration of .08 and higher affects one's ability to do the simplest of tasks such as walk a straight line to a more dangerous task such as operating a vehicle.

The demonstration, conducted by the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB), was integrated into the drivers education class at Bothell High School and launched a new statewide "interactive" educational effort to reduce underage drinking and driving.

Through a $9,000 grant from the Allstate Foundation, the WSLCB purchased the "Fatal Vision Goggles" worn by the Bothell teens that will be used as a training tool for high school driver education classes throughout the state. The Foundation grant was presented to WSLCB Chairman Eugene Prince by local Allstate Agents Brad and Elaine Denslow.

Even though their son is only two-years old, the Denslows understand the risks involved when teenagers get "behind the wheel." As Allstate agents, they deal with these risks on a daily basis, and, sadly, have had to comfort one of their clients whose teenager was killed in an automobile crash.

"We make it a point at our agency to sit down with each new teenage driver and his or her parents. We explain that driving is a responsibility and not a privilege," says Elaine Denslow. Her husband Brad adds, "We want the teenager to understand the risks – of course the most serious being death or injury to oneself and to others – another, one teens often don’t consider, is the potential to financially ruin their parents should someone sue for death or injury."

"The price you pay for driving drunk is higher than most young people could imagine. Lost income and lost lives are often the result," said Randy Kelley, Allstate regional vice president. "We need to reach our youth to make them understand that driving is a responsibility and not an outlet for fun and excitement."

Kelley added: "Sadly, in Washington state, on average, teens get their first taste of alcohol when they are 13 years old. I find it even more alarming to learn that nearly one-third of Washington’s high school seniors binge drink. This is a serious concern to Allstate and, should be to all of us."

"Our hope is to vividly demonstrate to teenage drivers the effects of drinking liquor. We want them to experience how alcohol impairs the mind and vision without the actual consumption of alcohol," said Charlie Brydon, WSLCB member. "The Board appreciates support from Allstate Insurance Company and its Foundation in furthering our shared goal of reducing underage drinking and driving.

Established in 1934, the Washington State Liquor Control Board serves the public by preventing the misuse of liquor and tobacco through education, enforcement and controlled distribution. The WSLCB’s "Fatal Vision" Program will be operated through the Enforcement and Education Division.

Allstate Insurance Company is the nation’s largest publicly-held personal lines insurance company, insuring one of every eight homes and automobiles in the country. The company provides insurance for more than 20 million customers and has approximately 15,000 agents in the U.S. and Canada.

The company’s commitment to the community is demonstrated through The Allstate Foundation. Established in 1952, The Foundation is an independent corporation funded by contributions from Allstate. Grants are awarded to non-profit organizations that seek to improve the quality of life in communities across the country.