vv 10-23

Learning to be a Good Driver
By: BJ Killeen / Down the Road
Although The Vegas Voice caters to seniors,
this column isn’t about teaching you to drive,
but your grandkids.
For those who have grandchildren who are
just getting behind the wheel, you know
it matters that they understand how to
handle a car, as well as what to do when the
unexpected happens.
One of the best driving instruction
programs is called B.R.A.K.E.S., which stands
for Be Responsible and Keep Everyone
Safe. The school was started in 2008 by
NHRA drag-racing star Doug Herbert, who
lost his two young sons in a tragic car crash.
B.R.A.K.E.S. is a non-profit organization that teaches young adults
how to be better drivers. It’s open to those ages 15-19 who have a valid
permit or driver’s license, a minimum of 30 hours driving experience,
and at least one parent or legal guardian who can attend the entire
session.
The program travels around the country, bringing an array of skills
to new drivers. B.R.A.K.E.S. is coming to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway
for the first time for one weekend only, October 7-8.
If you have a grandchild who is relatively green behind the wheel,
tell their parents to visit the website and sign up. The classes are three
hours long and fill up fast. Three sessions are available for Saturday
and two sessions on Sunday.
I’ve attended the school and have been
promoting B.R.A.K.E.S since it opened.
The team of professional drivers are both
amazing racers and talented coaches.
They instruct on everything from crash
avoidance to car control and skid recovery
to how to react in a wheel drop-off situation.
They also demonstrate how ABS feels during
a panic stop, as well as the dangers of driving
distracted. Instruction happens in vehicles
generously supplied and sponsored by Kia.
The cost of the program is free, but it
does require a $99 credit card deposit to hold the reservation. After
the class, you can request a refund or donate the money to help them
continue this valuable program. For more information or to register,
visit putonthebrakes.com.
BJ Killeen has been an automotive journalist for over 30 years.
She welcomes all questions and inquiries, and can be reached at
bjkdtr@gmail.com
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26
October 2023
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