Young drivers invited to attend safety class

New and future young drivers are invited to an upcoming free driver safety education class, offered by the Merced area California Highway Patrol's Start Smart Program.

The class is approximately two hours long and two separate classes will be held. The first class is 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Merced area CHP office at 1500 Bell Drive in Atwater. The second class is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sept. 25 at the same location.

Teenagers age 15 to 19 and their parents or guardians are invited to attend and hear officers discuss traffic collision avoidance techniques, collision causing factors, driving under the influence, driver and parent responsibilities, seat belt usage and many other topics.

The latest "Red Asphalt" video will be shown along with testimonials from officers who have investigated fatal collisions involving teens.

There's no cost for the class but space is limited. To reserve a spot in the class, contact Officer John Patterson at (209) 356-2958.