Young Drivers Program Teaches Dangers, Responsibilities of Driving

Apr. 5,2023

It is only the beginning of April, but parents of young drivers should be aware that the most dangerous time of the year on the roads is approaching. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), during the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day there are more fatal motor vehicle crashes involving teens. Data also shows that new teen drivers are three times more likely than adults to be involved in a fatal crash, and the crash risk is the highest during the first six months of driving.

The Lee Health Trauma Center, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the Lee County Sheriff and AAA are once again offering the free Young Drivers Program.

The Young Drivers Program is returning on Tuesday, April 7, for the first time in-person in more than two years. The program, which is free for young drivers and parents, is held on the second Tuesday of each month from 5-7 p.m., at the AAA Fort Myers office, 2516 Colonial Blvd. While the class does not replace the Florida Driver’s Education course, it is a valuable additional educational opportunity that helps keep everyone safe on our roadways. For more information, or to register to attend, call Syndi Bultman, RN, MS, CEN, Lee Health Trauma Center injury prevention resource coordinator, at 239-343-1617 or email her at [email protected].

I was a father of young drivers, too, so I know how important it is to discuss the dangers, responsibilities and privileges of driving. I encourage the parents in our community to take advantage of this program, but in the meantime, Syndi and I remind your young drivers of these vitally important points:

• Buckle up! Seatbelts are the single most effective safety device for preventing injury or death.
• Do not drink or do drugs before getting behind the wheel.
• Put all distractions away – turn off your cell phone or put it on “Do Not Disturb” and do not text or use social media while driving.
• Take time to familiarize yourself with the vehicle, especially if it is the first time driving it, but always check the lights and turn signals and adjust the mirrors.

“Every day, about seven teens (aged 13-19) die due to motor vehicle crashes and hundreds more are injured,” Syndi says. “In Florida, according to AAA, an average of 42 people are killed each summer in teen driver-related crashes. These crashes are predictable and preventable. Parents continue to be the best defense, but we can’t just tell teenagers about the dangers and the need for safety; we must also lead by example and avoid dangerous driving ourselves.”

Thanks to Syndi and the team at the Trauma Center, the FHP, Lee County Sheriff’s Office and AAA for organizing this program to help our young drivers stay safe behind the wheel, so people of all ages and roadways throughout our community are safer, too.