The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) have launched the “No Empty Chair” campaign, a vital initiative aimed at educating young drivers and preventing motor vehicle crashes during the high-risk prom and graduation season. Running from April 21 to April 25, 2025, this campaign combines education, awareness, and law enforcement to ensure no empty chairs at these milestone events.
Why the No Empty Chair Campaign Matters
Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death for young adults aged 16 to 20, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Despite teens making up only 5% of licensed drivers, they account for 8.5% of drivers in fatal crashes and 12.6% in all crashes. Alarmingly, the rate of traffic fatalities for young drivers rose by 4.5% between 2022 and 2023, with a staggering 43% increase in motorcycle-related deaths among this group.
The No Empty Chair campaign addresses these sobering statistics by focusing on safe teen driving and encouraging responsible decision-making behind the wheel. With prom and graduation season in full swing, the campaign aims to protect young drivers and their passengers, ensuring they arrive safely at celebrations and beyond.
Campaign Details: Education and Enforcement
From April 21 to April 25, 2025, the GTSC is partnering with local communities, law enforcement, and schools across New York State to deliver a week-long series of events and enforcement activities. The campaign focuses on educating teens about the dangers of reckless driving while cracking down on illegal behaviors.
Daily Enforcement Focus
Law enforcement will increase patrols near high schools, targeting specific violations of the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) law, which helps young drivers gain experience in a controlled manner. Here’s the enforcement schedule:
Monday, April 21: Speeding in School Zones
Tuesday, April 22: Seat Belt and Child Restraint Violations
Wednesday, April 23: Cell Phone Use and Texting
Thursday, April 24: Operation Safe Stop (School Bus Safety)
Friday, April 25: Underage Drinking and Impaired Driving
Key Event: North Rockland High School
On April 23, 2025, the GTSC will host an event at North Rockland High School, featuring:
Anastasia Karassik, who will share the heartbreaking story of her daughter Larisa, killed at age 13 by a drunk driver.
A rollover crash simulator to demonstrate the dangers of vehicle accidents.
A mock extrication to highlight the challenges first responders face in crash scenarios.
This event underscores the campaign’s mission to make teens aware of the real consequences of dangerous driving behaviors.
Voices Behind the Campaign
The No Empty Chair campaign has garnered support from key figures in New York’s traffic safety and law enforcement communities:
Mark J.F. Schroeder, DMV Commissioner and GTSC Chair, emphasized, “Driving continues to be one of the leading causes of death for young people, and this doesn’t have to be. We want everyone to enjoy life’s momentous occasions.”
Lauren Zimmerman-Meade, SADD Director of Field Engagement, urged teens to “speak up, make a plan, and look out for one another” to ensure safe driving decisions.
Steven G. James, New York State Police Superintendent, highlighted the tragic loss of high school students in crashes and stressed the importance of addressing contributing factors before more lives are lost.
James Quattrone, Chautauqua County Sheriff, encouraged teens to practice patience and make good decisions, such as wearing seat belts and avoiding distractions.
Shawn Heubusch, President of the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police, affirmed law enforcement’s commitment to educating and protecting young drivers.
Resources for Safe Teen Driving
The GTSC provides a Younger Driver Toolkit with resources for coaches, school resource officers, parents, and teens. Additional materials are available on the DMV website, offering guidance on safe driving practices and the Graduated Driver Licensing law.
The Bigger Picture: GTSC’s Mission
Beyond the No Empty Chair campaign, the GTSC coordinates year-round traffic safety initiatives, including:
Promoting pedestrian, motorcycle, and bicycle safety.
Sponsoring law enforcement training to enhance road safety.
Encouraging seatbelt use statewide.
By combining education, enforcement, and community engagement, the GTSC is working to reduce traffic fatalities and injuries across New York State.
How Teens and Parents Can Get Involved
Teens and parents can take proactive steps to support the No Empty Chair campaign:
Teens: Follow the GDL law, avoid distractions like texting, wear seat belts, and never drive impaired.
Parents: Discuss safe driving habits with your teen, set clear rules, and model responsible behavior behind the wheel.
Community Members: Support local events and spread awareness about the campaign’s message.
A Call to Action: No Empty Chairs
The No Empty Chair campaign is a powerful reminder that every decision behind the wheel matters. By educating young drivers, enforcing traffic laws, and fostering community support, New York State is taking a stand to prevent teen driving fatalities. Let’s work together to ensure every student makes it to their prom, graduation, and beyond—no empty chairs.
For more information, visit the GTSC website or the DMV’s younger driver resources. Stay safe on the roads, and help keep New York’s teens safe this season.