WHO: As part of a nationwide tour focusing on the dangers of smartphone distractions while driving, AT&T is setting up a unique, virtual reality simulator at the DIRECTV Office in Huntington, giving employees the chance to experience how dangerous it is when drivers their eyes off the road to look at their phones. It’s the second of four stops this week on AT&T’s It Can Wait tour across the county. Speakers include: Andy Feeney, regional vice president for AT&T External Affairs in West Virginia; Huntington Mayor Steve Williams; and Kevin Fowler, CEO Huntington Hospital.
WHY: Research shows that 7-in-10 people engage in smartphone activities while driving. People are doing much more than just texting from behind the wheel; they’re checking email, posting to social, and even snapping selfies. When you’re behind the wheel, everything can change in the blink of an eye. A post, a selfie, a text, a scroll, an email—one look is all it takes.
WHEN: Friday, July 8, 2016 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Media availability at 11:15 a.m. with representatives from AT&T, local community leaders and organizations.
WHERE: DIRECTV
2203 5th Street Road Huntington, WV 25701
VISUALS: Virtual reality simulator; Opportunity for reporters/videographers/photojournalists to experience simulator; Interview opportunities with simulator “drivers.”
