Meeting with MasterDrive
On Wednesday, Feb. 6, MasterDrive spoke about the danger of distracted driving as a part of Red Ribbon Week. Although some families only went for the free Driver’s Ed course, many walked out of the CCC more informed about teenage driving risks and how to prepare for the road.
Masterdrive is a driving company based out of Colorado with over 26 years of experience. They branched out to open another location in Irvine eight years ago. MasterDive has been recognized for “the MasterDrive Experience” by The Wall Street Journal, AutoWeek Magazine, USA Today, CBS, Fox and NBC Nightly News, just to name a few.
Mr. Wolven, a former employee of MasterDrive, helped PALS PLUS chose MasterDrive. According to Safe School Counselor, Christine Lopez, MasterDrive is well known for their “highest most reputable program”. One of the speakers, Mike DiBenedetto, grew up in Palos Verdes.
Getting teenagers on the right path for safe driving is difficult in an online course. The true test of one’s ability is to test it in every scenario. That is why Lopez, along with DiBenedetto, believes that the best way to improve one’s driving skills is to “practice, practice, practice”. DiBenedetto explained that a four to six cylinder engine, four-door sedan would be the best car for a teen to learn to drive in. It won’t be able to go too fast and it has a low center of gravity so tipping is less likely. MasterDrive also has come up with a closed course for defensive techniques such as maneuvering a hydroplaning vehicle.
As prepared or not a person may be, no one can drive safely while distracted. DiBenedetto suggests the best way to not get distracted while driving is to “put the phone away, turn the radio down and be constantly scanning the road.” He also mentioned that “for every friend in the car, the chance of a dangerous crash occurring increases by 100%”. One second can change a person’s life forever. Even those who are not distracted should stay aware of other distracted drivers. Locals should also make sure to keep speeds down on hills and watch out for pedestrians and horses.
Lopez then went on to recognize Palos Verdes Peninsula’s recent history of car accidents involving students; three that resulted in death and another led to amputation. “Driving is a huge responsibility and should be taken seriously,” teens should only be allowed to take the DMV test when their parents agree to their readiness.
Overall, Red Ribbon Week looked like a success, the PLUS team explained that “students seemed to be really invested” as many students took the pledge against distracted driving.
