Authors
Hamilton, B.C.
Publisher
American Automobile Association Foundation for Traffic Safety
Website Section
Driver Type
Method
Review
Abstract
This report summarizes the supplementary driver training portion of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study titled “Examination of Supplemental Driver Training and Online Basic Driver Education”. This review was conducted to help policymakers, driving school owners, parents and other potential consumers of these programs better understand the major findings from this study and provide information useful to debating the potential merits and downsides of these programs. A total of 56 programs from different providers in the United States were analyzed. Results showed many similarities in program content and training approaches. The majority of programs had in-classroom activities and lectures, followed by in-vehicle instructor-led practice. Other similarities included course length, and primary safety-related objectives.
However, key differences were evident in relation to the types of venues and facilities used by these programs. Differences were factored into the system developed to categorize supplemental training programs. The following six classes of programs were identified: Basic Driver Education Plus; Traveling (courses that travel to hold sessions at different venues nationwide); Closed Course; Race Track; Technology; and Fleet Driver Oriented. It concluded that despite the overall similarities in program objectives, scientific evaluation of safety impacts of these programs was lacking. It is therefore important to clarify the uncertainties surrounding benefits or potential disadvantages to the mindset, and ultimately the safety of new teen drivers as supplemental driver training field is largely unregulated.
Reference
Hamilton, B.C. (2012) Supplementary Driver Training for New Drivers. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, Washington, DC.
Related Topics
Overview, evaluation, evaluating, assessment, studies, findings, practices, culturally responsive, Nebraska university, fresh look, large scale
