Free national teen driving program 'BRAKES' coming to Richmond Raceway Sept. 6-7
Table of Contents
A nationally recognized teen driver training program aimed at saving lives will make its Metro Richmond debut next month in Henrico County.
BRAKES (Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe), a free pro-active defensive driving course, will hold sessions Sept. 6 and 7 at Richmond Raceway Complex, 600 East Laburnum Avenue.
Founded in 2008 by Top Fuel drag racing champion Doug Herbert after the deaths of his two sons in a car crash, the nonprofit program has trained more than 150,000 teens and parents nationwide. Independent research shows that graduates of the program are 64% less likely to be involved in a crash during their first three years of driving, according to organizers.
The Henrico sessions are being held with support from YOVASO (Youth of Virginia Speak Out About Traffic Safety), the Virginia State Police, and the Virginia DMV. Training times include Sept. 6 at 8 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., and Sept. 7 at 8 a.m. and noon.
Utilizing Kia-provided vehicles and a low student-to-instructor ratio, the three-hour courses include hands-on training in panic braking, crash avoidance, skid recovery, distracted driving awareness, and more. Professional trainers include law enforcement officers, professional racers and stunt drivers.
“This is not driver’s ed — it’s advanced, real-world training that makes a proven difference,” Herbert said. “We’re thrilled to bring our life-saving program to Richmond.”
For details or to register, visit putonthebrakes.org
