In Palm Beach County, students at Seminole Ridge Community High School participated in a hands‑on demonstration during Teen Driver Safety Week to highlight the dangers of impaired and distracted driving. The class wore specially designed vision goggles that mimic the visual distortion of intoxication, then attempted simple tasks such as walking a straight line, balancing on one foot and tossing a ball.

Teacher stresses responsibility

Driver‑education instructor Scott O’Hara said the exercise was an “eye‑opener” for the teens. He urged them to think twice before getting behind the wheel while under the influence or while using a phone. “Distracted driving now is the number one killer of teens with car accidents,” O’Hara warned. “The phone is something they should put away, not be tempted by when they’re driving. Because you don’t always get a second chance when you’re behind the wheel. You’ve got to be the boss and take charge and do things the right way because the consequences can be deadly.”

Free driver’s‑education options across the county

Palm Beach County School District provides free driver’s‑education instruction to students at multiple high schools throughout the year, including after‑school and summer sessions. Parents are only required to cover the cost of the learner’s permit at the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Day‑time driver’s‑ed locations:

• Seminole Ridge Community High School
• Royal Palm Beach Community High School
• Wellington Community High School
• Palm Beach Gardens Community High School
• Jupiter Community High School

After‑school extended‑day options:

• Glades Central High School
• West Boca Raton Community High School
• Boca Raton Community High School
• Spanish River Community High School
• Olympic Heights Community High School
• Forest Hill Community High School
• Palm Beach Central High School
• Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts
• Palm Beach Lakes Community High School
• Lake Worth Community High School
• Santaluces Community High School

The district will announce the schools offering a summer driver’s‑education program early next year.

Why the focus matters

Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in crashes when impaired or distracted. By providing practical, free education and emphasizing personal responsibility, the county aims to reduce accidents and protect families across the community.

Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.