It can be nerve wracking for both parents and teens when it’s time for driver’s ed, permits and licenses. However, there is a free defensive driving program for teens. This program will teach them important knowledge and skills to help make them safer drivers.
Defensive Driving Program for Teens: About B.R.A.K.E.S.
About the Program
Put On The B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe) is a non-profit 501(c)3. The mission of this program is to prevent injuries and save lives. They do this by training and educating teenage drivers and their parents about the importance of safe and responsible driving.
NHRA drag racing star Doug Herbert founded the program after he lost his two young sons, Jon and James. Sadly, they died in a tragic car crash in January of 2008. This tragedy led Doug to create a defensive driving program for teens. His goal was to help prevent other families from experiencing similar heartbreak by teaching young drivers better driving skills.
Training Beyond Driver’s Ed
To start, traditional driver’s education programs are important and valuable. However, this program goes above and beyond by addressing driving situations that cause many traffic accidents involving teens. This defensive driving program for teens could save their life one day.
In this program, teen drivers will get to learn skills and participate in hands-on exercises. These exercises include collision avoidance, drop wheel and off-road recovery. It also covers distraction, panic stop, and car control and and recovery.
Eligibility
In order to attend this defensive driving program, there are a few requirements. First, participants must be between 15 – 19 years old. The exception is 16 – 20 years old if attending the class in NC. Attendees must also have a valid permit or driver’s license and at least 30 hours of driving experience. Finally, at least 1 parent needs to come with their teen/teens.
Cost
The BRAKES defensive driving program for teens is absolutely free! They do require a $99 refundable deposit in order to hold a reservation. This is to deter no-shows. However, upon arrival at the class, this money is refunded back to the participant. Since it is a non-profit organization, donations are used to run the program.
Location
So far, BRAKES has reached teens in 46 states and 5 countries. They have their schedule posted on their website, laying out what cities and states they will be in next. Anyone can contact BRAKES and request that the program comes to their area for a course in the future.
While traditional driver’s education courses are beneficial, additional driving training is always a good idea. This BRAKES defensive driving program teaches valuable skills and may even save a life.