SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Obtaining a driver license is a rite of passage for teenagers. However,
the reward of being a new driver comes with a real risk. Traffic collisions are the leading cause
of death for teens in the United States, taking the lives of an average of eight teenagers every
day. The chance of a teen being involved in a collision is at a lifetime high within the first two
years of driving. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) developed, “Start Smart,” a program
specifically designed to address newly licensed teen drivers and their parents.
“Through interactive educational programs like ‘Start Smart,’ the CHP is working to influence
California’s teen drivers so they develop good driving habits early,” said CHP Commissioner Joe
Farrow. “Accidents do happen, but collisions are avoidable.”
“Start Smart,” is a free class, offered at local CHP offices throughout the state. During each two-
hour “Start Smart” class, testimonials are provided by both CHP officers who have investigated
fatal collisions involving teens, and parents whose children have been killed in collisions. CHP
officers also discuss collision avoidance techniques, collision causing elements, driver responsibilities, seat belt restraints, proper decision making, as well as parental roles and
responsibilities. During the 2012-2013 grant year, the CHP presented 787 “Start Smart”
classes impacting 38,183 teenagers along with their parents or guardians. The CHP also conducted 563“Start Smart” traffic safety presentations impacting 61,136 people.
“Our goal is to have teenagers and their parents leave the class more aware, more educated, and
better prepared,” added Commissioner Farrow. “Our ‘Start Smart’
program has had a positive
impact on thousands of parents and teens throughout the state.”
Parents and teenagers can sign up for a“Start Smart” class by contacting their local CHP office.
To locate a CHP office near you, visit www.chp.ca.gov.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety
through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.