USC Student Awarded Scholarship for Essay on Distracted Driving Dangers

Abby Samuelson, a University of Southern California student, has been honored with the 2025 Defense Against Distracted Driving Scholarship by J&Y Law for her insightful essay on the perils of distracted driving. Her narrative, drawn from personal experience, vividly illustrates the devastating consequences of distractions behind the wheel, advocating for heightened awareness and preventive strategies.

In her essay, Samuelson recounts a traumatic accident caused by a couple distracted by an argument, a moment she describes as a turning point in understanding the dangers of cognitive, physical, and verbal distractions. Her proposal for a 'No Distraction Challenge' leverages social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok to foster safe driving habits among younger demographics, blending education with engagement.

The scholarship, awarded by J&Y Law, not only acknowledges Samuelson's personal ordeal and innovative ideas but also underscores the firm's commitment to combating distracted driving. By encouraging college students to explore and address this issue, the initiative aims to spark a broader conversation on road safety and the collective responsibility to prevent accidents.

Samuelson's achievement and her forward-thinking approach serve as a beacon for change, offering practical solutions to a problem that affects countless individuals across the nation. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact one voice can have in driving societal change and the importance of education in preventing future tragedies on the road.