Hey there, fellow readers! Let’s take a look at the new bill, OK HB 2418, and break it down in plain and simple terms.
In 2020, it was reported that over 857 fatalities occurred nationally in work zones. Because they do not possess the hands-on experience as more mature drivers, Oklahoma teen drivers are at the highest risk of causing crashes, injury, and fatalities as they are unprepared to navigate work zones safely. In response, Oklahoma made a conscious decision to update its strategy for educating and involving Oklahoma teenagers who are newly acquiring lifelong work zone driving habits. The objective is to equip these young drivers with both practical experience and digital resources, allowing them to actively contribute to the promotion of work zone safety.
On November 1, 2023, new legislation, Oklahoma HB 2418, took effect. The new bill mandates that Oklahoma teens applying for an intermediate Class D license must successfully complete an ODOT approved course that focuses on the essential topics of teen driver work zone and first responder safety. The aim is to equip young drivers with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate work zones responsibly and effectively, ultimately ensuring their safety and that of those working within these zones.
The Oklahoma Work Zone Safe course is a free online program that takes 45-60 minutes. Users will have the flexibility to complete the course at their own pace, choosing to complete it all at once or by logging in multiple times.
Upon successfully finishing the course, users will receive a certificate acknowledging their completion. This certificate may be printed out and later presented at either a Service Oklahoma or licensed operator location.
Teens transferring from out-of-state with a Learner Permit, seeking to obtain a Intermediate License, are required to take the course. However, it will not apply to applicants who already possess an Intermediate License, or equivalent, from their state of origin.
When an applicant acquires their Learner Permit, they have the option to submit their completion certificate. If they choose to do so ahead of time, there won’t be a need for them to submit it again when they obtain their Intermediate Class D License. However, it is crucial for the completion certificate to be on record before the applicant applies for an Intermediate Class D License.
Throughout the course, young drivers will hear directly from transportation professionals, contractors, and emergency responders as they learn work zone safety, behaviors, signs, and laws. They will gain a comprehensive understanding of blind spots, the importance of maintaining a safe distance, the significance of lowered speeds, the necessity of wearing seat belts, and other essential behaviors that ensure safety within work zones. Moreover, they will develop a deep appreciation for the diverse workers, motorists, and first responders who coexist within these work zones. The course provides a unique practical experience component where these new drivers can actively participate in learning these crucial work zone safety principles.
Upon completion of the course, your teen will have acquired the ability to detail prevalent occurrences of work zone crashes as well as the fundamental driving habits that can effectively avert injuries and fatalities. Moreover, they will be able to explain work zone scenarios and diverse tools devised to guarantee the safety of motorists, workers, and first responders.
In conclusion, the passing of Oklahoma HB2418 has undoubtedly sparked a vital conversation about the safety and well-being of our teen drivers and the potential hazards they may encounter. This new legislation emphasizes the importance of thorough training and education for teen drivers, promoting a proactive approach towards road safety, specifically when they are driving in work zones or encounter first responders on the road.
Where to enroll: https://www.workzonesafe.com/
Work Zone Safe Course FAQs: https://www.workzonesafe.com/resources
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