Local Student Wins KNR Scholarship Competition | KNR
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KNR Legal
Date posted
 
May 30, 2019
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Akron, OH (Akron Legal News) – It takes just seconds for a driver to look away to read to respond to a text, pick up the phone or grab a bite of breakfast, but those simple actions can have long-term consequences when they lead to a motor vehicle accident.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 3,450 distracted driving-related deaths in the United States in 2016 alone.

Indeed data from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) shows nearly 80,000 distracted driving crashes took place in the state between 2013 and 2018, leading to the deaths of 268 people and over 3,000 serious injuries. The agency notes that the numbers are believed to be significantly higher since people don’t always report distracted driving. In 2018, the personal injury attorneys at Kisling, Nestico & Redick (KNR) launched the Don’t Text & Drive Scholarship, which awards $5,000 to a student who comes up with the most creative solution to help raise awareness among young people about the dangers of distracted driving.

“Our law firm concentrates on helping car accident victims,” said Josh Angelotta, a senior partner at KNR. “We have noticed that a growing portion of these accidents involves distracted drivers, who are not only texting but doing other things to contribute to the accidents on a daily basis. “The scholarship is part of our year-long KNR Cares About Kids campaign, which gives back to the community beyond the courtroom,” he said. “From preparing 75 personal bags for Summit Country Children Services to stuffing 80 bags for high schoolers at Akron Public Schools’ spring break, we hope to inspire others to give back.” This year’s scholarship winner is Hudson High School senior Elianna (Ellie) Norin, 18, who came up with an idea for a public service announcement.