The city of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department, in partnership with the Santa Maria Police Department, is taking action to address one of the leading causes of teen fatalities: distracted driving.
As part of the effort, the city will host the Impact Teen Drivers Safety Workshop, a free educational program for teens, ages 14-17, and their parents.
The workshop will be 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 23 at Elwin Mussell Community Center, 510 E. Park Ave. Light refreshments will be provided. No registration required and walk-ins are welcome.
In California, six out of 10 teen crashes involve some form of distraction, according to statistics. Common causes include interacting with passengers; using a phone; looking at objects inside the vehicle; or even singing and dancing to music.
The Impact Teen Drivers Program uses real-life stories, interactive presentations, and peer engagement to raise awareness and shift attitudes, encouraging safer driving decisions that can save lives.
Trained City Rangers, alongside officers from the Santa Maria Police Department Traffic Unit, will lead the session. They will be sharing firsthand accounts of responding to serious and fatal collisions involving young drivers.
Teens and their parents are encouraged to attend together to foster open conversations about safe driving habits.
The program is made possible through Measure U funding and support from the Recreation and Parks Department.
For more, call the Recreation and Parks Department, 805-925-0951 ext. 2260.