SGI is teaming up with Saskatchewan youth to spark a conversation about safe driving.

Heather Anderson, Communications Consultant with SGI provides details on the teen driver resources being distributed.

"SGI is distributing teen driver resource guides to local high school students and youth groups. These educational kits include a USB that is packed with good information on how to implement peer-to-peer traffic safety initiatives and they also provide information on how to apply for community grants and host traffic-related events."

6.4% of drivers in Saskatchewan are 19 or younger and in 2020 this group was involved in more than 2700 collisions which caused 611 injuries and 15 deaths. Anderson says they want to see these numbers improve and speaking with young drivers is an important focus for SGI. 

In 2020 86 collisions involving teens were drug or alcohol-related, 367 involved driver distraction and speeding was a factor in 217 of them. 

Anderson stresses the importance of connecting with teen drivers.

"Youth play a critical role in influencing positive behaviours among their peers. We really want to help equip teens with the tools they need to practice safe driving habits and also encourage their friends and even family members to follow the rules of the road. Educating teens is so important because the habits that they learn now really will last them the rest of their driving careers."

Anderson adds that it helps to target teens now so that they can stay safe driving and stay safe on the roads by developing good driving habits such as planning a safe ride home, obeying the speed limit and putting the phone away while driving. These are important things for all ages to consider but they want teens to start thinking about them now so they can continue to have these good practices on the road for the rest of their lives. 

Those interested in being involved in a peer-run traffic safety course can contact the Traffic Safety Community Outreach Program at 1-844-855-2744 ext 6042 or by email at trafficsafety@sgi.sk.ca