NJM Insurance Group Announces Winners of Second Annual "Just Drive" PSA Video Contest

May 5, 2020

Leading auto insurance company's Teen Driver Safety Program awards winning schools $30,000

WEST TRENTON, NJ — NJM Insurance Group, in partnership with the Pennsylvania DUI Association (PA DUI), is awarding $30,000 total to the winning high schools of the second annual "Just Drive" public service announcement (PSA) video contest. Students representing 76 high schools in 30 Pennsylvania counties created 30-second videos highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.

The three winning schools were:

  • First Place: North Allegheny Senior High School (Wexford, PA) won $15,000. Their PSA highlighted how quickly distracted driving can cause an accident and change a life.

  • Second Place: Octorara Junior Senior High School (Atglen, PA) won $10,000. Their PSA highlighted how easy it is to get distracted, but to ignore those distractions and remain focused while driving.

  • Third Place: Chichester High School (Aston, PA) won $5,000. Their PSA highlighted the importance of following a safety checklist when driving.

The winning schools will receive funds toward a post-prom, post-graduation, or safe driving program. Schools will be able to use the funds in 2020 or 2021.

"Anytime students can collaborate to educate and positively influence each other, it's a big win for everyone. We are inspired by their creativity, and resourcefulness in producing these PSAs," said Tracy McManimon, NJM senior vice president and chief underwriting officer. "We believe the next generation of drivers will play a crucial role in promoting attentive driving."

NJM announced the winners in a special virtual presentation on Facebook and Instagram. Originally, the winners were to be announced at a screening party at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, PA, in conjunction with Distracted Driving Awareness Month. In light of measures in place to address the COVID-19 pandemic, the presentation moved online. During the virtual announcement, participants had the opportunity to view clips from all 50 submitted entries.

"Thanks to all the students who participated in developing peer-to-peer messages focused on safe driving. All of their efforts are to be commended," said Felicity DeBacco-Erni, project director at PA DUI. "We're so proud to partner with NJM to discourage distracted driving. This relationship continues to enhance efforts to educate Pennsylvania's teen drivers on the importance of safe driving."

About NJM Insurance Group

NJM is a leading property casualty insurer in the Mid-Atlantic region. The Company offers workers' compensation, auto, homeowners, renters and umbrella coverage in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Connecticut. One of NJM's core values is to support the communities it's privileged to serve, a value exercised through year-round employee volunteer efforts at local non-profits and a formal corporate giving and engagement program. Headquartered in West Trenton, NJ, NJM employs nearly 2,500 workers and operates in a mutual fashion for the exclusive benefit of its customers. For more information, visit njm.com.

About NJM'S Teen Driver Safety Program

NJM's nationally recognized, award-winning Teen Driver Safety Program is available at no cost to Pennsylvania and New Jersey high schools. The program was recognized in 2016 by the National Safety Council for its demonstrated results in reducing behaviors among teens that lead to crashes. Also included in the Teen Driver Safety Program is the "Just Drive" campaign, in partnership with the Philadelphia 76ers. Anyone can take the "Just Drive" Pledge to automatically be entered to win 76ers-themed prizes, including game tickets, merchandise, suite nights, and VIP game experiences.