Seats available for defensive driving class in Lincoln

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — One of the scariest things a parent can do is hand the keys to their teen for their first solo drive.

Young drivers face distractions in the car almost constantly, but a national teen driving program teaches them to be proactive against potential dangers.

In August, B.R.A.K.E.S., which stands for Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe, is making its Nebraska debut.

On Aug. 12 and 13, it will host five classes at the Lincoln Airport.

During these classes, teens and parents attend a short orientation, then everyone gets to put the pedal to the metal.

Having the parents participate in the lessons put them on the same page as their child so that the learning can continue after the class.

“It’s not a one and done; B.R.A.K.E.S. just sets the foundation,” said Don Hughes, the program’s Central Region manager.

In the 15 years since it began, more than 110,000 parents and teens have completed the class.

B.R.A.K.E.S. said teens who graduate are 64% less likely to be in a crash in the next three years.

“If we can get them through those next three years, we’ve put good driving habits in them,” Hughes said.

The classes require a $99 deposit to reserve a seat, but that can be refunded to parents afterward, if they wish.

“But usually, after they come to the class and they burn up our tires and our brakes, and they see the smile on their teen’s face, and they can see the confidence of where their teen is now behind the wheel, more relaxed, they usually just donate the money,” Hughes said. “But if someone doesn’t have the money, we understand. That’s not a problem.”

Those donations keep the nonprofit organization going.

For more information and to register for the Lincoln classes, visit its website.