Teen drivers have the highest crash risk of any age group. And the worst problem, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, is among 16-year-old drivers who have limited experience and an immaturity that leads to risk-taking behaviors.
In an effort to prevent these behaviors and address some of the major responsibilities associated with teen driving, Traffic Safety Night is being held for Sun Prairie drivers education students and their parents Nov. 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Prairie View Middle School.
The program will focus on teen alcohol use and driving, graduated licensing requirements, and factors affecting insurance rates for teen-age drivers.
Presenters include Jennifer Neibuhr from the Dane County Sheriff’s Department, John Olson from Sun Prairie High School, and Gary Tribbey from General Casualty Insurance Companies.
“Our goal is to get parents and teens talking about driving issues,” said Gary Tribbey, General Casualty’s personal lines business analyst. “They need to be aware that irresponsible driving, such as speeding and drinking and driving, at the very least, directly impacts their insurance rates. Showing the dollar impact is usually an eye-opener, especially for parents.”
The event will begin with dinner, followed by the presentations and an opportunity for parents and teens to develop a contract outlining the teen’s driving responsibilities and the consequences if those responsibilities are not met. This is intended to foster dialogue between teens and parents in a positive, non-threatening atmosphere.
In addition to funding from state and federal prevention grants awarded to the school (more) district, General Casualty is funding the event because of its focus on prevention and safety in the community. “The program will help educate future drivers to hopefully reduce auto accidents and unsafe behaviors,” said Hollie Bowker, General Casualty’s corporate relations manager.
The program is for Sun Prairie High School drivers education students and their parents. The course is strongly recommended for new drivers but not required.
For more information please contact Anne M. Smith.