The teenage years can be dangerous for young drivers, who are inexperienced and more likely to be involved in motor vehicle crashes than any other age group.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that drivers between the ages of 16-19 have a fatal crash rate almost three times as high as drivers ages 20 and older, per mile driven.
Vista High School hopes to change the statistics by adopting the Start Smart safe driving program. Students will be required to attend the two-hour class with their parent or guardian to obtain an on-campus parking permit.
The first class at Vista High took place this month, coinciding with National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. Rancho Buena Vista High School adopted the program last year.
California Highway Patrol Officer Hunter Gerber leads classes in the Vista Unified High School District. He shares personal stories from his experiences as a first responder and highlights collision risk factors such as speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, texting while driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs.
According to the most recent California Healthy Kids Survey (2022-2023), 12% of Vista’s 11th graders reported drinking alcohol in the past 30 days and 9% said they had used marijuana. After alcohol, marijuana is the most common drug associated with impaired driving.
Organizers say parent participation is an essential facet of the program because it encourages family conversations about topics like underage substance use. Parents are advised to set clear expectations, to be good role models for their teen drivers, and to adopt the prevention strategies shared in the class.
After the class, parent Patricia Swillens said she believes the class was good, not only for new drivers, but for parents, too.
The classes will be offered at Vista High and Rancho Buena Vista High throughout the year. The classes are free, with the support of the California Highway Patrol and Vista Community Clinic’s Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention Program.
Resources and services are available to assist with screening, treatment, and recovery for individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD). The Access and Crisis Line is open year-round, 24/7, at (888)724-7240.
