More than 260 students from Ashburton College and Ashburton Christian School had road safety on their minds this week.
Taking part in the Rotary Youth Driver Awareness (RYDA) programme on Tuesday, the Year 12 students learned about the importance of good road safety decisions.
Liona Stanicich, programme co-ordinator for the South Island, said it was important for youth to understand what the rules are and why they exist.
‘‘Quite often young people don’t really think about the why, they just think we’re trying to spoil their fun,’’ Stanicich said.
The day was divided in to several workshops facilitated by qualified driving instructors and police. Topics covered included vehicle safety, passing other vehicles, differing road conditions and braking distances.
RYDA course facilitator Brad Darling said the demonstration on live speed and stopping distances left a lasting impression.
During the demo, Darling drives a car at 40kmph, 50kmph and 60kmph, and brakes at the same point each time; at 50kmp the car stopped, but at 60kmph it hits a bright yellow dummy positioned in front of it.
‘‘The increase from 50kmph to 60kmph may seem like a small increase, but that nearly doubles stopping time,” he said.
Facilitator Deb Webb gave her groups something else to remember when she asked them about when to pass a truck.
“I ask do you need to pass a truck going 90kmph?” she said. “You’re still going forward at 90kmph and that’s pretty quick.”
Stanicich said encouraging students to speak up as a passenger, when they were worried was also important.
“Passengers need to know the driver has the right licence, isn’t impaired in any way and won’t engage in risky behaviour.”
“It isn’t always easy for young people to speak up. We give them tips on what to say and suggest they practice before the situation arises.”
Stanicich recommended young drivers, parents or caregivers check out www.drive. govt.nz for more information.
