Program teaches teens defensive driving

DAYTON (WDTN) - For teens summer brings a break from class and more time to spend in the car. That typically leads to a spike in crashes involving young drivers.

Earlier this week, 16 year-old Stavon Person of Centerville was killed when then the car he was riding in, which was driven by an 18 year-old, crashed on Centerville Road. Police said it appears speed was a factor. They think the driver overcorrected, lost control and then went airborne.

"In our experiences we find that speed and the young drivers in today's society lead to a higher crash rate," said Sgt. Mark White.

Sgt. Mark White said one of the best things parents can do to keep their kids safe is talk to them about the responsibilities that come with driving.

There is also special summer program that could help.

Key Bank and the Mid Ohio Driving School are hosting the "Key to Safe Teen Driving" program on June 22 at Springboro High School. During the training, young drivers can learn defensive driving techniques from professional drivers.

"The typical drivers education program is designed around laws and compliance," said Ed Reilly, District President, Key Bank Southwest Ohio. "This is about skill and how to avoid difficult situations or if you find yourself in a difficult situation on the road, how to make the best of it".

The program was designed to help students learn how to handle would-be scary situations in a controlled environment. They tackle over-correcting, stopping on wet-roads and have the opportunity to drive a special "skid-car", that simulates driving on ice.

"It's a real life experience, as opposed to thinking about it, theoretical, or reading about it," said Reilly. "They are doing it, they're seeing it, they're hearing it. People learn in different ways and this covers all those bases".

The "Key to Safe Teen Driving" event is free and open to 120 teen drivers. To sign up, visit www.keytosafeteendriving.com