Ohio has started a new program for parents of teen drivers. This training is facilitated by a health care educator and a law enforcement officer. Currently, Lieutenant Shawn Parker of the NEOMED Police Department is the only officer in Ohio trained to lead this class, and he has three scheduled in the coming months. He would like to share the information on this training as it is always beneficial to have a connection to your presenter in trainings.
ThinkFirst for Parents of Teen Drivers is currently a virtual 90-minute evidence-based traffic safety program to educate parents on Ohio’s Graduated Driver Licensing Law. Supported by a grant from Honda, the goal of the program is to reduce new driver crashes and the resulting injuries and fatalities by increasing parents’ awareness and enforcement of Ohio’s GDL law.
AT THE END OF THIS PROGRAM PARENTS WILL:
• have an increased awareness of teen driving risks
• have a greater understanding of Ohio’s GDL law
• have the tools to monitor and enforce GDL compliance with their teen
• understand the importance of being a positive role model ThinkFirst for Parents of Teen Drivers provides tools parents need to be involved in supporting, coaching, and monitoring new teen drivers.
Ensuring parents understand the risks and responsibilities associated with driving is essential in preventing teen driving tragedies. Many parents think once teens obtain a license, they are ready to drive. The process of guiding teens to overcome risks and develop safe driving skills is just beginning. Teen driving is a complicated process! The program uses video and discussion to promote the importance of parents and teens working together to reduce teen roadway crashes, injuries, and fatalities. The program is delivered by trained facilitators who coach parents by presenting key facts and proven strategies to help parents lower their teens’ crash risk by utilizing the Graduated Drivers Licensing law. This is a free program and a great opportunity for parents of driving age (or soon to be of age) teenagers.
Please reach out to meghanlyon@thinkfirst.org if you would be interested in attending.
Once more health care educators are trained, Lt. Parker hopes to be able to bring this training in person.
Dates are on this flyer.