Campaign Enlists Comedians to Curb Reckless Teen Driving
The Ad Council has some new material in its campaign aimed at teenage drivers. In these spots, a comedic actor (Fred Willard in the ad above) in the backseat of a car with three teens cajoles or threatens the driver into slowing down or minding the road. The gist of the campaign, corresponding with the title of its web site, is "speak up or else" -- a name perhaps more suited to hard-hitting PSAs from overseas.
By
Brad Aaron
2:02 PM EST on March 6, 2009
The Ad Council has some new material in its campaign aimed at teenage drivers. In these spots, a comedic actor (Fred Willard in the ad above) in the backseat of a car with three teens cajoles or threatens the driver into slowing down or minding the road. The gist of the campaign, corresponding with the title of its web site, is “speak up or else” — a name perhaps more suited to hard-hitting PSAs from overseas.
Brad Aaron began writing for Streetsblog in 2007, after years as a reporter, editor, and publisher in the alternative weekly business. Brad adopted New York's dysfunctional traffic justice system as his primary beat for Streetsblog. He lives in Manhattan.
Read More:
More from Streetsblog New York City
‘Slopulism’: Cheaper Driving Is Hochul’s Key ‘Affordability’ Issue
The governor has nearly a one-track mind when it comes to lowering auto insurance premiums — no matter the cost to her constituents.
March 30, 2026
Lawmakers Want More Funding For Upstate Transit Than Hochul Is Offering
Some transit authorities are already cutting back as state assistance doesn’t meet the mark. And Hochul isn't coughing up the big bucks.
March 30, 2026
To Save Lives — And The Theater — Let’s Ban Cars From Broadway
We are all suffering from the few people who drive into the Times Square area. So let's make the easy fix, argues our contributor.
March 30, 2026
Monday’s Headlines: Mamdani’s Missing Link Edition
City Hall will hear out QueensLink advocates despite its financial commitment to the competing QueensWay. Plus more news.
March 30, 2026
Mamdani Will Upgrade Brooklyn Bridge Manhattan-Side Entrance By June
DOT will begin start construction in April of the Adams-era proposal to give cyclists and pedestrians their own entrances to the bridge.
March 27, 2026
Comments Are Temporarily Disabled
Streetsblog is in the process of migrating our commenting system. During this transition, commenting is temporarily unavailable.
Once the migration is complete, you will be able to log back in and will have full access to your comment history. We appreciate your patience and look forward to having you back in the conversation soon.