Misawa offers "Alive at 25" defensive driving course

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Samuel Morse
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 3,600 drivers between the ages 15 and 20 were killed behind the wheel in the U.S. in 2000. More than 2,500 individuals were killed as passengers and a total of more than 9,000 were killed as a result of traffic accidents involving young drivers.

To reduce these numbers, the National Safety Council created "Alive at 25," a defensive driving course. On June 14, the free, four-hour course will be available primarily for dependents between the ages of 15 and 25.

The four-hour course incorporates workbook exercises, interactive media, group discussions and lectures. It focuses on raising awareness of young drivers who are more likely to be in an accident, according to the Alive at 25 Web site. Distractions such as texting, cell phones, mp3 players and GPS units, combined with peer pressure, alcohol and even drugs can create a fatal mix. Ultimately, the course is designed to help young drivers develop confidence and strategies to keep themselves safe.

In addition to helping develop safe driving habits, the program also reacquaints drivers with U.S. traffic laws, which for many may now be foreign to them.

"We are aware that many of our teens are [moving] over the summer and may have limited driving experience as a result of having lived overseas," said Faye Jenkins, school liaison. "Some are moving to heavily populated cities and will be driving at greater speeds and following different traffic rules than while here in Misawa."

Since 2000, the number of fatalities in collisions involving young drivers has steadily declined, which could be an indication that programs such as Alive at 25 are working to save lives. In 2008, the number of driver fatalities between the ages of 15 and 20 dropped from more than 3,600 to approximately 2,700 according to statistics from the NHTSA, a reduction of more than 24 percent.

Besides the safety benefits, drivers who complete the course may be eligible for insurance discounts, said Mrs. Jenkins. Each insurance company has their own rules, but many will offer young drivers some measure of savings.

"It's a great program all around, and a real benefit to Misawa's teen population," said Sergeant Johnson.

The class will take place between noon and 4 p.m. at Edgren High School in Room 7. There will be two classes with 22 seats. The class is open to anyone between the ages of 16 and 25. There will be programs specifically offered to young active duty service members. Lastly, free pizza will be served at 11:45 a.m. to program participants.

A sign-up list is available at the front counter at Edgren High School. Seats can also be reserved by calling Edgren High School at 226-3351 or Mrs. Jenkins, at 226-2624.