California Highway Patrol

The California Highway Patrol is offering a traffic safety program for teenage drivers and their parents. The Start Smart program is aimed at helping future and newly licensed teenage drivers become aware of the responsibilities that accompany the privilege of being a licensed California driver. The program is designed as an educational tool for parents and teenagers in an effort to reduce the number of teenage injuries and deaths resulting from traffic collisions.

Traffic collisions are the leading cause of death for 15-20 year olds. The primary objective of the program is to provide teens and parents with an understanding of how poor choices behind the wheel can affect the lives of numerous people. The Start Smart program also provides teens and parents with information on defensive driving, traffic laws in California, dynamics of traffic collisions, tips on avoiding traffic collisions, and DUI awareness. “The information we provide is useful not only to new drivers, but to experienced drivers as well,” Officer Mike Untalan stated. “The Ventura CHP will be conducting monthly presentations in an effort to meet demand from parents. It is encouraging to see so many people interested in the program,” Officer Untalan added.

Smart Start classes are free of charge and are held at the Ventura Area CHP office. The next class will be on Thursday, September 18, 2008 at 6:30 pm. To make a reservation, please contact Officer Mike Untalan at (805) 477-4130.