Getting a driver’s license is an exciting time for any teenager; it represents a transition into freedom and independence for the teens and their families. It can also represent a stressful time as studies show teens are the most distracted and dangerous of drivers.
Defensive Driving Academy has contributed to advanced teen driver training programs across the country and is pleased to announce a Santa Clarita Valley location. As a mother of a teenager, a local resident and a driver-training expert, I can’t tell you how much it means to bring this course to our valley.
I know many of you may be asking, what exactly is a defensive driving course? We don’t teach teens ‘how to drive,’ we simply build on their existing abilities and give them practical, hands-on skills to be a more prepared driver. New drivers (minimum three months’ experience) are put through a series of driving exercises on a closed course. They experience skidding on wet and dry pavement, losing control of their vehicle, extreme braking conditions, and evasive maneuvers first hand. They learn what their car is doing, why it is doing it, and what they can to do to maintain control and, ultimately, avoid an accident. These exercises are taught at slower speeds and professional instructors are there to guide them through the information.
What if a ladder fell off the construction truck in front of the car your teen was driving? What if the car they were following suddenly slammed on their brakes? What if a car unexpectedly veered into their lane? These are all scenarios Defensive Driving Academy prepares for.
One Sunday, a parent left a voice mail to tell us that her son was driving on the 405 freeway, hit an oil patch and started to skid. Instead of panicking or overreacting, he knew how to handle his vehicle to maintain control. She called to thank us because she said if he hadn’t attended this course, he wouldn’t have recovered from that situation. When we hear a story like that, we know exactly why we are in business!
Defensive Driving Academy announces Six Flags Magic Mountain as our newest location. The first event will be held Saturday, February 21 or Sunday, February 22. Courses are seven hours long and participants use their own vehicle.
If you have any questions or would like any additional information, give us a call 661-257-8980 or visit www.DefensiveDrivingAcademy.net .