LANCASTER – Collisions remain the number one killer of American teenagers, killing almost as many drivers as passengers, and killing more kids than homicide or suicide, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Saving teen lives through education is a mission of the CHP, which is providing a new, revitalized “Start Smart” teen safe driving program.
Local parents and their teenage drivers are encouraged to register earlier for the next Start Smart class in the Antelope Valley, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 19, at the CHP office, located at 2041 West Avenue I in Lancaster. The free class starts at 6 p.m.
The Start Smart program uses innovative techniques to capture the attention of teens and parents, providing a lasting learning experience. The curriculum is built based on collision statistics, teen driver and passenger behaviors, graduated driver license (GDL) laws, cultural changes in today’s society, and the need for stronger parental involvement.
The interactive, two-hour class covers the following topics:
- Safe driving habits.
- Tips on how to avoid collisions.
- Dynamics of a collision.
- Consequences of a poor choice behind the wheel of a vehicle.
- Testimonials from people tragically impacted by incidents involving teen drivers.
- Parental roles and responsibilities.
- Legal ramifications and civil liabilities affecting teen drivers and their parents.
“Education is the most important aspect of a new driver’s ability to develop positive driving habits,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Programs like ‘Start Smart’ are geared towards influencing and educating California’s teen drivers to make the right choices when they get behind the wheel.”
How to register for the free local class
Parents and teenagers can sign up for the next local “Start Smart” class by contacting the CHP’s Antelope Valley office at 661-948-8541. Reserve your spot today, as space is limited.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety.
Jason Zink says
Parents Wake UP! Don’t you think this should be taught in our Local AV High School being the #1 KILLER of Teen’s – your kids – grandkids???
Sometimes you wonder about education and what is being taught in our schools by so called educated people:
Wake-UP!!!! teachers, administrators, school board members, city councilman, state senator, law enforcement. “#1 KILLER of Teenager’s” just saying local politicains, maybe it should be required class to get diploma in our local public and private school’s.