Graduates of Licensed to Learn Teen Driving Program Have Fewer Accidents
Graduates of Licensed to Learn Teen Driving Program Have Fewer Accidents
Handing the car keys to a new teen driver can be a rite of passage for teenagers and parents alike. For the new driver, it’s a moment of freedom and new possibilities. For parents, it can be a moment of anxiety—and for good reason. One in five teens will be involved in a crash during their first year of driving.
Standard driver training is required for all licensed drivers, yet sadly, car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens age 16 to 19. So how can parents go the extra mile to boost their teen’s awareness and safety on the road? The answer is AAA’s Licensed to Learn Teen Driving Program, according to Mike Formanowicz, AAA Driver Training Manager.
“The Licensed to Learn Teen Driving Program lets students learn in a safety-focused classroom environment with 30 hours of classroom instruction,” Formanowicz said. “In-car training is conducted one-on-one with a state-licensed AAA driving instructor.”
The program also includes 10 driving lessons, a 5-hour pre-licensing course certificate, a certificate for point and insurance reduction (defensive driving) and a free 1-year AAA Basic Membership.
Formanowicz said students have responded positively to the program’s knowledgeable and approachable instructors. He shared feedback from a satisfied graduate of the program:
“My in-car instructor was patient and easy to learn from. I was really nervous about operating a vehicle and he helped me to feel much more confident as we went,” the student responded. “I felt that he really knew what he was doing.”
The results of the program have been impressive, with teenage Licensed to Learn drivers ages 16 and 17 having a 62% lower accident rate in New York State. The program has successfully prepared hundreds of young drivers for the road while offering peace of mind to parents.
“Parents really enjoy the convenience of the program. Getting their kids comfortable behind the wheel is very important, and some parents have difficulty teaching their own kids how to drive,” Formanowicz said.
AAA members can save $50 on registration, and trainees can save $100 when they sign up online and take their Licensed to Learn driving lessons at the Amherst, Orchard Park, Greece or Penfield locations. Certain restrictions apply.