In aiming to curb the alarming rate of vehicle accidents among youth, the Sevierville Police Department (SPD) is offering a free Collision Avoidance Training (CAT) for young drivers. Set for May 25, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the initiative targets individuals between the ages of 16 and 20 who hold a valid driver's license. As reported in a social media post by the Sevierville Police Department, to partake in this program, participants need their own vehicles, complete with current insurance, and prep to start the day at the SPD before moving to the Sevierville Convention Center.
The course, according to the SPD, offers both theoretical classroom lessons and practical driving experience, and it employs a nationally recognized program catering specifically to young motorists. Registration is limited and is managed by Sergeant Caleb Brien, who can be contacted for further information or to secure a spot. The hands-on sessions are designed to acquaint young drivers with their vehicles, which they are likely to operate on real roads. This, coupled with SPD’s belief that we learn through our errors, and thus the program permits youthful drivers to err under the watchful eyes of seasoned instructors, thereby instilling in them a deeper understanding of their vehicle's capabilities and their driving skills.
Skill areas covered in CAT exceed those of basic driver education, encompassing evasive maneuvers, emergency braking, and skid recovery, among others. The SPD, through this training, aims to furnish young drivers with the know-how to make them less susceptible to severe road mishaps. "Because of the high traffic volume in our community, we experience a significant number of traffic collisions," SPD Chief Joseph Manning stated, emphasizing the potential benefits of the training.
Chief Manning urges parents to consider the merits of this free training for their offspring, given not only its comprehensiveness but also its accessibility.
