CHP Classes Aimed at Responsible Teen Driving

Thousands of crashes involving teen drivers occur each year. In order to keep the statistics from climbing, the California Highway Patrol has launched a new program specifically for new drivers.

This week the CHP started its Start Smart driving classes, which are designed to teach teens the correct rules and laws of the road, collision avoidance techniques and proper driving etiquette. CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said the tips can help new drivers get a a good start on becoming responsible drivers.

“Many teens are eager to get their driver license when they turn 16 and may not realize the huge responsibility that comes with that privilege,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Start Smart driving classes are designed to provide an interactive safe driving awareness class which will illustrate how poor choices behind the wheel of a car can affect the lives of numerous people."

Start Smart classes will be offered throughout the state and are aimed at 15 through 19-year-olds and their parents or legal guardians. Anyone interested in signing up for a class should contact their local CHP office.

Teen Driver Statistics

• According to the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, from 2007 through 2009, there were more than 31,000 fatal and injury crashes involving at least one teen driver between the ages of 15 and 19.

• Those same collisions resulted in 743 people killed and more than 48,000 injuries. However between 2007 and 2009, fatal and injury collisions involving teens decreased by approximately 30 percent and 22 percent.