Throughout the years, I?ve had the chance to observe a number of defensive driving courses for teens. My daughter went through a full-day course when she was 16 and came out of it with a completely different perspective and a better appreciation and respect for driving safety.
It was one of the best things she ever did to better prepare her for driving. Driver?s education courses are very good at teaching new drivers the rules of the road and prepare them for passing the state driving test, but these defensive driving courses take them to the next level. So much so that I?d like to see them become a required step in obtaining a full license. Drivers under the age of 18 are most likely to be involved in car crashes, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
The problem with basic driver?s education courses is they don?t teach the students what to do in the event of a problem. A new driver learns to handle his or her vehicle when it runs into the gravel off the road for the first time, and it?s usually too late. These students don?t learn how to steer in a panic stop or when to brake on wet roads when the car is sliding sideways. Defensive driving courses give them real-time experience in a controlled environment so that the reaction is based on understanding rather than panic. Maryland has passed some great laws in the last few years to help make things safer for new drivers and again, I believe that defensive driving classes need to become a mandated part of the program.
That?s why I was so pleased to see that Jeff Payne is bringing his “Driver?s Edge” program to the Baltimore area. This program uses classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction on a skid pad. The beauty is that this course is free.
There will be two sessions Saturday at Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen ? one at 8 a.m. and the other at 1 p.m., but you have to register in advance. Drivers ages 15 to 21, who have a valid learner?s permit or license can participate but the course is limited to 200. Visit www.driversedge.org to sign up, and let me know what you think after you or your child has gone through it.
Transportation questions? Thoughts, comments, random musings? Do you have an idea on how to make Baltimore?s commute a little easier for everyone? Write to Steve at [email protected].
