CHP offers driver-safety class to teens

A class offered by the California Highway Patrol for new and prospective young drivers is set for April 20 in Atwater.

The class is free, but space is limited, the CHP said.

Teenagers ages 15 to 19 and their parents or guardians are invited to attend the two-hour class at the Merced CHP Office, 1500 Bell Drive, Atwater.

Class topics include collision-avoidance techniques, the dangers of driving under the influence, causes of crashes and seat-belt usage. The latest “Red Asphalt” video will be shown during the class.

CHP officers who’ve investigated collisions involving teenagers and other young people will speak about their experiences and the emotional effects of those incidents.

The driver-safety education class is offered as part of the CHP’s Start Smart Program.

According to the CHP, teen drivers are found at fault in 66 percent of all collisions in which they are involved, although they are just 4 percent of the state’s licensed drivers. Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death for Americans ages 15 to 20.

To sign up for the class or obtain more information, contact Officer Moises Onsurez at (209) 356-2958.

This story was originally published March 18, 2015 at 9:11 AM with the headline "CHP offers driver-safety class to teens."