Michigan State Police Trooper Joe Renaud works with a student on a driving simulator. (Courtesy photo)

WAKEFIELD — Some 250 students from Bessemer and Wakefield-Marenisco schools were able to use a driving simulator and virtual reality goggles to learn about the dangers of impaired driving.

The equipment, made possible by a partnership between the Wakefield post of the Michigan State Police and the Save a Life Tour organization, let students experience what it was like to try to text or be impaired by substances while driving.

Community service Trooper Joe Renaud had been working on getting a driving simulator to the western Upper Peninsula for some time, overcoming logistical obstacles to finally allow students to participate in this experience.

“I wanted the simulator because classroom instruction doesn’t hit home as well. When it’s a fun interactive simulator, it helps the students learn better. They found that they could not safely send a text and drive,” said Renaud in a press release. “When they used the virtual reality goggles, it gave them perspective to signify they were under the influence.

The simulator was a great tool to help show students the dangers of distracted or impaired driving while in a safe and educational environment.

“The staff and students really enjoyed this opportunity, and we will work on getting it back again next year.”