The Skoda Street Smart road safety programme will again be held in Cromwell on the first weekend in May helping young drivers to hone skills to keep them safe on New Zealand roads.
The goal of the programme is to reduce accidents and fatalities by addressing specific challenges young drivers face using internationally proven methods that provide real-world driving experience.
Statistics say that fatal crashes where the driver’s contribution is significant are more likely to involve drivers under 24 years.
A lack of experience and awareness results in poor decision making on our roads and the Skoda Street Smart programme can help address areas of concern.
The day-long Skoda Street Smart programme is run in a controlled environment ain Highlands away from open road motorists and those enrolled to take part experience a variety of scenarios and situations as they transition through 10 practical stations in their own vehicle accompanied by their parent or caregiver.
Specific exercises as part of the day-long course include:
- Head on collision
- Following too close
- Emergency braking
- Peripheral vision
- Hazard identification
Spaces are fully booked for the upcoming event in Cromwell on May 1st, however program coordinator Penny asks that if you are interested to please put your name on the waiting list by visiting www.streetsmart.nz as on occasion there are spaces that become available.
“We are also re-running the program in July, there’s room left in the Invercargill based course, but getting in early for the next round is the best idea to make sure young drivers are safe on our roads.”
Cromwell Rotary members volunteer their time each year to ensure the programme runs smoothly and this year is no exception with volunteers ready to take part in ensuring young New Zealand drivers are gaining from the experiences on offer through the programme.
