Teen Driver Safety Week 

The Sheridan Police Department appeared on Sheridan Meida’s Public Pulse program to talk about National Teen Driver Safety Week and ask parents to sit down and have driving safety conversations with their children. 

According to SPD Captain Tom Ringley, this week, and every week, parents should have conversations with their teens about the important rules they need to follow to stay safe behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. According to the US Department of Transportation, these discussions should address the greatest dangers for teen drivers: alcohol, inconsistent or no seat belt use, distracted and drowsy driving, speeding, and number of passengers.

Ringley told listeners that in his experience, the first rules we learn are the rules and lessons that stick with us throughout our lives. 

Defensive driving involves being alert and aware of not only the driver’s surroundings but the other vehicles on the road. Recently the SPD concluded the first iteration of the new driving school, which was developed and led by SPD Lieutenant Dan Keller. 

Keller informed listeners of the curriculum that he and his fellow teaching officers give instruction on during the classes.  

Keller and his team are already preparing for their next class which is open for the public to register and attend. Class size is limited. If residents are interested in attending the SPD driving class, call the SPD at 307-672-2413 and ask to speak with Lt. Dan Keller. 

But according to the US Department of Transportation, parents can be the biggest influencers on teens’ choices behind the wheel if they take the time to talk with their teens about some of the biggest driving risks.