Citation

Jensen M, Wagner J, Switzer F, Alexander K, Pidgeon P, Rogich K. Chron. Driver Educ. Prof. 2011; 58(Summer): 4-13.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association)

DOI

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PMID

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Abstract

This article reports on a driver education program for new drivers that focuses on both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction that covers four common driving skills and situations: braking, avoiding obstacles (reaction time), losing control, and tailgating. The authors remind readers that traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for 16 to 20 year olds and account for one in three deaths in this age group. They also note that effective training programs identify their target audiences and tailor the program paradigm and methods to their developmental needs. The authors outline four modules that make up the Petty Safe Driving Program (SDP) that integrate best practices and training tools aimed to improve driver knowledge, behavior, awareness, and driving skills. The SDP totals six (6) hours and consists of a 30 minute opening, four (4) 75 minute long modules, and a 30 minute conclusion. The authors conclude that assessment of the program's impact should examine the change in participants' knowledge, attitude, and driving behaviors, as well as provide an evaluation of driving performance, perceptual strategies and decision making.

KEYWORDS: Close following

Language: en