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Politics & Government

Sheriff's Department Provides Free 'Start Smart' Classes for New Drivers

The highest percentage of fatal teen automobile accidents happen during prom and graduation season.

With graduation just around the corner, and a summer full of sunshine on the open road a tassel-flip away, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department says it’s now more important than ever for teens to stay focused on the road. To help, the sheriff’s Fallbrook substation is offering free Start Smart classes.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol-related crashes among teens rise considerably during prom and graduation season. Car accidents account for 35 percent of teen deaths reported.

Officials say the program is designed so new drivers and their parents can fully understand the responsibilities that come when a teen starts to drive.

Find out what's happening in Ramonawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The following classes will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at Fallbrook High School in room 201:

  • June 9
  • July 20
  • August 24
  • September 7

For reservations, contact Dep. Mark Cahill at 760-451-3190 or mark.cahill@sdsheriff.org.

Find out what's happening in Ramonawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The following classes will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Poway Sheriff’s Department:

  • June 22
  • July 18

For reservations, call Cpl. Todd Murphy at 858-513-2818.

For a full list of classes and locations, Ramona residents can call 760-738-2491 or click here.

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