Hillsborough Sheriff Determined To Reduce Teen Car Crashes

LITHIA, FL -- It's a terrifying statistic. Car crashes are the leading cause of death for people ages 15 to 20 across the country. In 2016, more than 3,500 teens lost their lives on the road.

Teens make up about 5 percent of Florida’s licensed drivers were involved in 11 percent of the crashes in the state.

With that in mind, the sheriff's office is offering a series of Teen Driver Challenges designed to teach teens how to avoid being victims of car crashes.

The next challenge will take place Saturday, Aug. 25 at the Walter C. Heinrich Practical Training Site, 14063 County Road 39 S. in Lithia.

Approximately 15 to 20 pre-selected high school and college students will spend time in the classroom learning about vehicles, defensive driving and DUI awareness. Students will also be put through hands-on drills. For example, they'll learn exactly what to do to stay safe in the event of a tire blowout.

One unique aspect of this course is that students are learning using their personal vehicles.

The Teen Driver Challenge is offered four times per year and is free. The next course is scheduled for Dec. 1. For information, click here.

Video via Hillsborough Sheriff

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