Temecula CHP Offering Free Driving Class For Teens And Their Parents

TEMECULA, CA — Too many teenagers die in traffic crashes every year. According to the California Highway Patrol, a teen is killed every four hours in collisions across the United States.

"That equates to more than 1,870 teenagers killed each year. Another 184,000 teenagers are injured in traffic collisions," the CHP reported.

To that end, the CHP Temecula Area Office is working to reduce and prevent high-risk driving behaviors among teens by offering a free "Start Smart" class focused on comprehensive traffic safety education that is geared toward young drivers and their parents.

The class "employs innovative techniques to capture the attention of teenagers and parents, providing a lasting experience," according to the CHP.

The curriculum includes information on crash statistics, teen driver and passenger behaviors, graduated driver's license laws, cultural changes in today’s society, and the need for more parental involvement in a teenager’s driving experience.

The upcoming class is set for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29, at Temecula City Hall, 41000 Main Street. To register for the class, email CHP Officer Mike Lassig at MLassig@chp.ca.gov

For questions, contact Lassig by email or call him at 951-466-4300.

Parents are encouraged to attend the "Start Smart" event with their children.

Funding for the Start Smart program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.