Class teaches teens driving dangers in a safe environment | Transportation

Teaching teens the dangers of driving either distracted or impaired is the goal of a new safety course the department is offering.

The class focuses on the dangers of driving while texting, using cell phones and playing music, and also the problems that are associated with driving either drunk or drugged.

One way deputies help give teens the illusion of driving impaired is by having them driving an electric vehicle while wearing impairment goggles, which distort the teen's vision.

There are three different 1 1/2 hour courses being offered on Friday, June 8: one from 9-10:30 a.m., one from noon-1:30 p.m., and one from 2-3:30 p.m.

Teens must have either a valid driver's license, a learner's permit, or have successfully completed a driver's education course. Pre-registration is required by calling Sheriff's Safety Town at 698-7233.