In Georgia, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens. In an effort to address this problem, The University of Georgia Traffic Injury Prevention Institute (G.T.I.P.I.) has developed a statewide program called, Georgia Teens Ride with P.R.I.D.E. (Parents Reducing Injuries and Driver Error). The program offers Parent/Teen Driver Education classes for Gordon County residents. These classes target parents/guardians and their teenage drivers who are either just beginning to drive or are preparing for a learner’s permit. This class is approved by the Georgia High School Association. The course is FREE.

This is not a hands-on, mechanical “how-to” course, but a class that addresses driving attitude and behavior of teenagers, ages 14-16. This course will: help parents/guardians become more aware of their own driving behaviors; teach parents/guardians how to help their teenagers become safe drivers; help parents/guardians and teenagers learn what they need to do during the supervised practice driving time required to obtain a license, alter attitudes and driving behaviors of novice teenage drivers; gives both parents and teenagers an opportunity to ask questions regarding the laws and how they apply to teenagers.

Classes will be held on August 21, 2012 at Georgia Northwestern Technical College (Coosa Valley) in Calhoun. To register contact the Calhoun Police Department (706) 629-1234 or by email sjolley@calnet-ga.net. The teenager and at least one parent or guardian (who will supervise the practice time) must be present during the entire two- hour course. Class size is limited and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, call (706)-629-1234 or 678-413-4281 or visit www.ridesafegeorgia.org.