2026 Focused Driver Scholarship

The LaFratta Law Firm Focused Driver Scholarship highlights the serious risks of distracted driving and encourages students to reflect on its real-life impact. In a world of digital distractions and constant notifications, advocacy for roadway safety is more important than ever. Distracted driving endangers everyone on the road, not just the driver. Through this opportunity, applicants are invited to open this critical dialogue and share their perspectives on how both new and experienced drivers can stay attentive behind the wheel.

A moment of distraction on the road can lead to various charges, from minor speeding tickets to serious offenses. In Virginia, a simple driving mistake can be judged as “reckless driving” which is treated as a crime. This means that distractions while driving can leave a young driver with serious consequences, including potential jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Once these are on a record, they can impact scholarships, college, and job opportunities before they start.

With over a decade of defending clients as a Charlottesville Traffic Lawyer, Michael La Fratta has seen firsthand the impact that distracted driving can have on a life. Throughout his career defending clients in Virginia courtrooms, Mr. LaFratta has watched small driving mistakes turn into severe legal problems. Through this scholarship, he wants to use his experience to help students understand the law, stay safe on the road, and protect their futures. Apply by November 30th, 2026 for a chance to receive a $1,000 award.

Application Deadline: Nov 30th, 2026

Award Amount: $1,000

Eligibility

• The scholarship is available to any current high school senior, vocational student, college student or graduate student who is a legal resident of the United States residing in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia and who is enrolled in a vocational program or two to four year college or university.
• Employees of LaFratta Law Firm, their immediate families (parent, child, sibling, and spouse), and persons living in the same households of such individuals (whether related or not), are ineligible for this award.
• To apply for this scholarship, applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher and be in good overall academic standing.

Application Requirements

• The candidate must fill out the form below with all necessary information
• The candidate must submit a 750-1,000 word essay response to the prompt: Distractions on the road can lead to irreversible damage. Write about the dangers of distracted driving and its impact in your life. Do you think there should be more awareness for how new and experienced drivers can stay focused while driving?
  • Please note that all essays will be checked for AI writing. If AI writing is deemed present in the essay, the application will be denied.
• The candidate must submit a professional resumé that lists their experience, both professional and academic.
• The candidate must submit a transcript from their current school. First-year college students, graduate students, or individuals who have recently transferred schools may submit an unofficial transcript from their current school, as well as the most recent official transcript from their prior school. High school students can submit proof of acceptance to their college or university.
• Preference will be given to students either from or attending secondary school in the state.

The recipient of the Focused Driver Scholarship will be chosen during the month following the scholarship deadline. 

For all scholarship-related inquiries, please use this contact form. We are unable to answer scholarship questions by phone, email, or through any other contact forms listed on this website.