City unveils resource and education center to empower teen drivers

Published on June 3, 2024

SAN ANTONIO (June 3, 2024) – In a groundbreaking initiative to foster safer roads and empower the city's youth, the City of San Antonio Municipal Court, in collaboration with the Department of Transportation, announces the opening of the “Center of resources and education Drive SAfely SA”.

The Center was created under the leadership of Municipal Court Presiding Judge Carla Obledo as a solution to a growing problem: the increasing number of unlicensed teen drivers entering the court system with traffic citations. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to provide these teens with the resources needed to improve their driving skills and eventually obtain a driver's license.

“The Drive SAfely SA Resource and Technology Center represents an important step in our ongoing efforts to create safer roads for all,” said Judge Carla Obledo. “By combining the expertise of the Transportation Department and the commitment of Municipal Court, we provide a unique and invaluable resource for unlicensed teen drivers to learn, grow and become responsible members of our driving community.”

The center, funded in part by the Department of Transportation's Vision Zero SA program, demonstrates the city's commitment to eliminating traffic-related deaths and injuries while providing necessary classes designed to keep teens safe on our roads.

“Vision Zero SA’s collaboration on this initiative reaffirms its commitment to promoting road safety,” said Transport Director Catherine Hernandez. “We are proud to contribute to the Drive SAfely SA Resource and Technology Centre, knowing that it will play a central role in shaping the future of our city’s road users.

Key Features of Drive SAfely Resource and Technology Center:

• The center offers online courses from the Texas Department of Public Safety so teens can obtain their driver's licenses.
• Interactive training with Vision Zero SA educators to cover essential topics such as safe driving practices, defensive driving techniques and the dangers of distracted driving and driving under the influence.
• Videos produced as part of the Vision Zero SA program are available at the centre, offering valuable information and advice on responsible and safe driving behaviour, as well as the specific challenges faced by young drivers, including distractions, alcohol-related problems and other dangerous behaviors.

The Drive SAfely SA Resource and Technology Center is poised to make a lasting impact on the community by equipping the next generation of drivers with the knowledge and skills needed for safe and responsible journeys. As the center opens its doors, the city looks forward to a future in which every driver, young and old, contributes to the Vision Zero goal of zero traffic-related deaths and injuries.