WVU Medicine, Martinsburg High team up to teach students the dangers of drunk driving 

MARTINSBURG, W.Va. – In an ongoing effort to educate students about the dangers of high-risk behaviors such as impaired driving, WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center’s Critical Care and Trauma Services once again partnered with Martinsburg High School Administration to present its annual Prom Promise mock accident simulation. 

Now in its 16th year, the Prom Promise event continues to be a strong collaboration with Berkeley County Schools and numerous community agencies. The program features a realistic reenactment of a car crash, giving students a vivid look at the real-life consequences of drinking and driving. Over the years, it has grown into a powerful tradition designed to leave a lasting impression on teens ahead of prom season. 

“Teenagers hear about the dangers of drinking and driving all the time,” said Donald Grubb, manager of trauma and emergency management at Berkeley Medical Center. “But hearing and seeing are two very different things. While the simulation is playing out before the students, you can see in real time the impact on their faces.” 

Participating partners in this year’s simulation included Martinsburg Fire Department, Martinsburg City Police, HealthNet Aeromedical Services, Les's Auto Repair and Towing, Browns Funeral Home, and a theater student from Martinsburg High School. 

“The administration of Martinsburg High School is very proud of this yearly event. We are thankful for the collaboration with local emergency services and the time they sacrifice to provide an impactful demonstration for our students. The opportunity it presents for student engagement is educational and meaningful. Our goal is to challenge our students to make the appropriate choices and have a safe, memorable experience this Prom weekend,” said Brian Sine, assistant principal, Martinsburg High School. 

The collaborative effort highlights the critical role community responders play in both prevention and education. 

“If they think twice, we’ve done our job,” Grubb added. “To help make sure they make good decisions not only on prom night, but any time they get behind the wheel of a car.” 

Grubb emphasized the emotional impact the program can have on students and the importance of continuing the message year after year. 

“This is about reaching them in a meaningful way,” he said. “If we can reach even one or two students and prevent a tragedy, then it’s worth it. This truly is a community effort to take care of our kids.”