The National Safety Council young driver program, Alive at 25, has reached over 60,000 young people in Colorado.  Data in Colorado shows that in 60,000 young drivers the average number killed as the result of motor vehicle crashes is 90.  The 60,000 students from the Alive at 25 classes were followed and only 3 died in motor vehicle crashes.  Can you imagine being able to reduce our number of young people loss in motor vehicle crashes in St. Mary’s, Southern Maryland and throughout Maryland?

Alive at 25 is scheduled for May 31, 2008 in St. Mary’s County.  Long and Foster of California, Maryland is providing the location for the class.  It is taught by law enforcement officers or retired law enforcement only.  The program is run in cooperation with St. Mary’s County Highway Safety Program and the Chesapeake Regionally Safety Council.  Classes are one day for four hours but the skills will last into the young drivers long, long life.

Registration for the May 31 class is limited to 20 students and recent classes in Calvert County have sold out well in advance.  There is a $50 registration fee.  Call 301-862-3000 to pre-register.  Another class is scheduled for June 21, 2008.

Alive at 25 teaches young adults that:

·  People in their age group are more likely to be hurt or killed in a vehicle crash.

·  Inexperience, distractions, and peer pressure cause unique driving hazards.

·  Speeding, alcohol, and "party drugs" greatly increase their risk of injury or death.

·  As a driver or passenger, they can greatly reduce their risk by taking control.

·  Committing to changing their driving behavior makes personal, legal and financial sense.

For more information on young driver safety programs, please contact Ms. Jacqueline M. Beckman at 301-475-4200 ext. 1850 or email jackie.beckman@co.saint-marys.md.us.  Be sure to register with Long and Foster by calling 301-862-3000.