Teen defensive driving program aims to build confidence of young drivers
Teens went through crash avoidance, panic braking, distraction, and car control exercises at Bristol Speedway.
BRISTOL, Tenn. — The summer months are viewed as the most dangerous times for teenage drivers since most are on summer vacation and out of school.
Driving between Memorial Day and Labor Day was even given the label of "100 Deadliest Days" by AAA.
Former drag racing champion Doug Herbert is doing his part to keep teenagers safe on the roads.
After losing his two young sons in a car crash 13 years ago, Herbert launched the non-profit program, B.R.A.K.E.S, which stands for "Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe."
The free program made its way to Bristol Motor Speedway this weekend.
Teens went through crash avoidance, panic braking, distraction, and car control exercises.
"Especially as a new driver you're real timid," said Jeremy Birch, one of the B.R.A.K.E.S instructors. "We want to build their confidence in knowing they can handle situations."
"We put them in situations such as a skid to show them 'how to' and 'be confident to.' That way they don't freeze in the moment of, 'Uh oh this isn't good,'" he added.
The program has trained more than 45,000 teens across the country.
B.R.A.K.E.S said teens who have taken the course are 64% less likely to get in a car accident.
You can learn more about the program by clicking here.
This story was originally reported by our NBC affiliate WCYB.
To the Team at B.R.A.K.E.S I wanted to let you know that after over 18 months since attending your course in June 2018 my daughter had her 1st accident recently. Something hit her back tire and she starting to fishtail but she took control of the car thanks to the great instructors on your t... Click to Read More!
-Tanya B
I want to thank everyone at BRAKES for yesterday's Raleigh event. I believe the skills, knowledge, and confidence the kids gained we will make them better and safer drivers. Please pass along my sincere thanks to Matt, Doug and everyone who is involved with this valuable program.... Click to Read More!
-Tim
