Preventing Teen Driver Deaths: Temecula CHP Hosting Free Class

MENIFEE, CA — "A teenager is killed in a traffic collision every four hours nationwide. That equates to more than 1,870 teenagers killed each year. Another 184,000 teenagers are injured in traffic collisions. These deaths and injuries can be substantially reduced or prevented by eliminating high-risk driving behaviors through education."

The above information was provided Wednesday by the California Highway Patrol's Temecula Area office, and efforts are underway to change the grim statistics via another CHP “Start Smart” class for local teen drivers and their parents.

The free program focuses on comprehensive traffic safety education. Hosted by the CHP Temecula Area office, the class takes place from 6-8 p.m. on Aug. 24 at the law enforcement agency's office, 29737 New Hub Drive, Suite #201, in Menifee. Seating is limited. To register, log onto www.Eventbrite.com, search and click on CHP Temecula Start Smart.

"Start Smart employs innovative techniques to capture the attention of teenagers and parents, providing a lasting experience. The curriculum includes information 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 in a teenager’s driving experience," according to the CHP.

For questions about the upcoming class, contact CHP Officer Mike Lassig at MLassig@chp.ca.gov

Funding for the program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.