Drive smart with Drive Rite course

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) -  New driver Elizabeth Downard does a lot of talking when she gets behind the wheel since completing Tippecanoe County Purdue Extension's Drive Rite course.

Elizabeth Downard and her mom, Carol, use a technique called "commentary driving" so mom knows what she is planning to do while she's on the road.

"It helps both you and your parents realize if you're not focused," said Elizabeth.

"She's telling me ahead of time what she is thinking so I know how to help her respond or react to what is going on," said parent Carol Downard.

The Drive Rite Program is in addition to a traditional driver's education program. New drivers and their parents spend two hours a month for six months in class and 60 hours driving together. The course also teaches teens, like Grant King, how to leave the distractions behind.

"Turn my cell phone off or just throw it in the back," said new driver Grant King.

Grant's dad Troy King said having a new driver in a household can be nerve-wracking, but the Drive Rite course helps ease worries.

"It teachers more than just how to drive. It shows what concepts they need to learn for safety. What they need to be thinking about while driving," said Troy King.

The extra time in the car is important because driving for teens can be deadly. Lafayette Police Officer Chris Downard says 16- and 17-year-old drivers are the most likely to be involved in fatal crashes.

"It's clear 16- and 17-year-old drivers don't have the experience and practice necessary to be safe," said officer Downard

Parent Carol Downard said the program dramatically improved her daughter's driving.

"It's become a lot more smooth to ride with her. I watched her focus increase," said Carol.

Boosting both mother and daughter's confidence they'll be safer after leaving the driveway.

Learn more about the Drive Rite program at an informational meeting Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Tippecanoe County Purdue Extension office at 3150 Sagamore Parkway at South in Lafayette.