Victim Impact Panel
Following an OWI, driving under the influence, or distracted driving incident, our Victim Impact Panels offer a unique educational experience that encourages reflection, accountability, and safer decisions moving forward.
Unlike traditional educational programs, our panel uses a restorative justice approach. Participants hear firsthand stories from community members whose lives have been affected by impaired or distracted driving, including both those who have experienced harm and those who have caused it. Through these personal stories, attendees gain insight into the ripple effects that one decision can have on families, friends, and the broader community.
In-Person Victim Impact Panels
Please Note that there is no preregistration for the Victim Impact Panels; registration is taken onsite for each panel (held monthly) from 6:30 – 6:55 p.m. Click the button below to view the calendar of 2026 Panels and locations.
There will be a Law Enforcement Officer present at the time of registration to administer a PBT (breathalyzer) to all participants upon entry.
Please contact our office by email or by phone at 715-425-1100 with any questions or concerns.
Drunk Driving claims about 32 lives every day. There were 11,904 deaths from drunk driving crashes in 2024.
Distracted Driving claimed 3,208 lives in 2024. There were 315,167 people injured in motor vehicle traffic crashes involving distracted drivers in 2024.
Program Outcomes
In 2025, St. Croix Valley Restorative Services conducted an evaluation of the Victim Impact Panel program to better understand its impact on participants.
Results showed that participants:
- Demonstrated increased empathy and perspective-taking following participation
- Reported a greater understanding of the impact of impaired and distracted driving
- Developed a stronger understanding of how their choices impact others, their families, and the broader community
- Expressed high levels of satisfaction with the program
