Learning to drive is a big milestone for teens, but they can’t do it alone. Parents play a vital role in the driver education process, helping teens practice, stay safe, and build confidence behind the wheel. At 911 Driving School, we encourage parents to be actively involved in their teen’s driver education journey. Here’s how you can make the most of this important time.

Why Parent Involvement Matters

Teens are more likely to develop safe driving habits if they have strong guidance from their parents. Driving with your teen gives them the chance to practice in a controlled, familiar environment while receiving immediate feedback. Parents can model good driving habits, reinforce the rules of the road, and help teens learn to handle a variety of driving situations.

Tips for Parents

• Create a Calm Environment: It’s important to stay calm and patient while your teen is driving. Avoid yelling or panicking, as this can make them nervous. Give constructive feedback in a calm tone.
• Practice Regularly: The more your teen practices, the more confident they’ll become. Aim to log as many practice hours as possible in a variety of conditions, such as day and night driving, in the rain, and on highways.
• Reinforce Defensive Driving: Encourage your teen to always be alert and cautious on the road. Teach them to expect the unexpected and stay aware of their surroundings.
• Set a Good Example: Your teen is watching your every move behind the wheel. Be sure to follow the rules of the road, avoid distractions, and demonstrate safe driving behavior.

Your involvement will not only help your teen become a safe and responsible driver but also give you peace of mind knowing they’re well-prepared for the road ahead.

Are you a teen driver? You’ve probably heard all sorts of things about driving—some true, some not so much. Whether it’s advice from friends or something you saw online, it can be tough to know what’s real. At 911 Driving School, we want to help you get the facts straight so you can drive safely and confidently. Here are some common driving myths and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: You Can Text and Drive Safely

Reality: No way. This is one of the most dangerous myths out there. Even if you think you can glance at your phone quickly, it only takes a few seconds for something to go wrong. Imagine driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed—that’s what you’re doing when you text and drive at 55 mph. It’s just not worth the risk.

Myth 2: It’s Okay to Drive When You’re Tired

Reality: Driving tired is like driving drunk. When you’re exhausted, your reaction time slows, your focus drifts, and mistakes happen. If you’re feeling sleepy, it’s better to pull over and take a nap or rest.

Myth 3: New Drivers Are the Most Dangerous

Reality: Sure, new drivers are still learning, but they’re not the only ones who get into collisions. Distractions, speeding, and driving under the influence are major causes of crashes for drivers of all ages. Staying focused and driving carefully is important for everyone.

Myth 4: You Don’t Need a Seatbelt in the Backseat

Reality: Seatbelts save lives, no matter where you’re sitting in the car. If you’re in the backseat and not buckled up, you can be thrown around in a crash, hurting yourself and others. Always buckle up—it’s that simple.

Myth 5: Newer Cars Are Always Safer

Reality: New cars might have cool safety features, but an older car that’s well-maintained can be just as safe. It’s not just about the age of the car; it’s about how well it’s taken care of.

Driving is all about staying safe and smart. At 911 Driving School, we’re here to help you learn the skills you need to be a great driver. Let’s get started!

Let’s be real—getting your driver’s license isn’t exactly the most exciting thing in the world. But what if it could be a little more fun? At 911 Driving School, we’re not just about drilling the rules of the road into your head (though we’re pretty great at that, too). We’re all about helping you become a safe, confident, and skilled driver. Here’s why 911 Driving School should be your go-to:

Instructors Who’ve Been There:

Our instructors aren’t just anyone who knows how to drive. They’re current or retired police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel. These folks have real-life experience with emergencies on the road, so they know exactly what it takes to keep you safe out there.

Beyond the Basics:

Sure, learning traffic signs is part of the deal, but we go way beyond that. Our curriculum covers real-world safety skills you won’t find in any textbook. We’ll teach you how to spot potential hazards, what to do in an emergency, and how to be a defensive driver.

Learning Can Be Fun (Seriously!)

Let’s be honest, traditional driver’s ed can be a bit of a drag. But at 911 Driving School, we make learning fun and engaging. Our classrooms are decked out with cool tech to keep things interactive and interesting. You might actually look forward to coming to class—who knew?

Courses for Everyone:

Whether you’re a total newbie or just looking to sharpen your skills, we’ve got you covered. We offer a range of classes tailored to different experience levels, so you’ll find the perfect fit.

Affordable Options:

Learning to drive shouldn’t cost a fortune. That’s why we offer competitive rates and flexible payment options (some locations) to make things easier on your wallet.

So, why wait? If you’re looking for a driving school that’s going to teach you how to be a safe and confident driver—and maybe even have some fun along the way—911 Driving School is the place for you. Let’s get you on the road to success (pun intended)!

Road signs are essential for keeping us safe on the road. They guide us, warn us, and remind us of the rules. Whether you’ve been driving for years or you’re just starting out, it’s always a good idea to brush up on your road sign knowledge—especially the ones unique to Washington State. So, how well do you know your signs? Let’s dive into some of the key ones and see how you stack up!

Regulatory Signs: The Rules You Need to Know

Regulatory signs are the ones that tell you the rules. They’re usually rectangular and come in black and white or red and white. Here are a few you’ll definitely come across in Washington:

• Stop Sign: We all know this one. The big red octagon means stop completely, check for traffic, and then go when it’s safe.
• Speed Limit Sign: This sign tells you the fastest you’re allowed to go in that area. In Washington, speed limits can change quickly depending on where you are, so keep an eye out.
• No U-Turn Sign: If you see a curved arrow with a red slash through it, that means U-turns are a no-go in that spot. Don’t risk it—it’s not worth the ticket or the potential accident.

Warning Signs: Heads Up!

Warning signs are there to alert you to things you need to be aware of on the road. They’re usually yellow and diamond-shaped. Here are a few to watch for:

• Pedestrian Crossing: This sign, with a person walking, means you’re approaching a crosswalk. Slow down and be ready to stop if someone’s crossing.
• Merge Sign: This one shows two lanes coming together and warns you that traffic will be merging. It’s a good reminder to check your mirrors and adjust your speed to merge safely.
• Slippery When Wet: The car with squiggly lines behind it means the road ahead might get slippery when it rains. Slow down to avoid skidding.

Guide Signs: Helping You Navigate

Guide signs are the ones that help you get where you’re going. They’re usually green with white letters, but sometimes you’ll see blue or brown ones too. Here are a few key ones:

• Exit Signs: These are crucial when you’re on the highway. They tell you where to get off to reach your destination, so pay attention to avoid missing your exit.
• Destination Distance Signs: These green signs let you know how far you are from major cities or landmarks. They’re great for planning your trip and knowing how much farther you have to go.
• Rest Area Signs: The blue signs that show where you can pull over for a break. Whether you need to stretch your legs, grab a snack, or use the restroom, these signs have you covered.

Specialty Signs: Unique to Washington

Washington has a few signs that you might not see in other states, but they’re important for driving here:

• Chain Up Area: In the mountains, especially during winter, you’ll see signs telling you where to put chains on your tires. These are spots where it’s safe to pull over and get your car ready for snowy or icy roads.
• Wildlife Crossing: These signs warn you that animals like deer or elk might cross the road in rural areas. Keep your eyes peeled—hitting wildlife can be dangerous for both you and the animal.

Test Yourself

Now that you’ve gone over some of the key road signs in Washington, why not test your knowledge? The Washington State Department of Licensing offers practice tests with road sign questions, so you can see how well you know the rules. It’s a great way to prep for your driving test or just to make sure you’re still sharp.

Why It Matters

Knowing road signs is crucial for safe driving. They help you navigate, keep you informed, and most importantly, keep everyone on the road safe. Whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or going on a road trip, being familiar with Washington’s road signs will help you drive with confidence.

At 911 Driving School, we emphasize the importance of knowing your road signs as part of our driver education. Our instructors, who are experienced law enforcement officers, are here to help you master the road. If you’re looking to sharpen your driving skills or just need a refresher, we’re here for you.

Let’s talk about tackling those dark roads with confidence and caution. Whether you’re headed home after a late shift or embarking on a nighttime road trip, navigating the night requires some extra know-how. So, let’s ditch the clichés and dive into some real-world tips for staying safe and aware when the sun goes down.

Light it Right

First things first, let’s shed some light on the situation. Check your headlights, taillights, and turn signals before hitting the road. Ain’t nobody got time for a busted bulb in the dead of night. And remember, adjust those headlights so you can see without blinding others.

Stay in the Zone

Nighttime driving demands your full attention. Put the phone away, set your tunes before you roll, and save the snacking for when you’re parked. Your focus should be on the road, not on your latest playlist.

Give Space, Stay Safe

Keep your distance, folks. Tailgating is never cool, especially when visibility is low. Give yourself room to react to sudden stops or surprise obstacles. It’s called the two-second rule for a reason – keep a buffer between you and the car ahead.

Wildlife Watch

Keep your eyes peeled for critters on the move. Deer, raccoons, you name it – they’re out and about at night, and they don’t care about your bumper. Slow down in areas known for wildlife crossings, and if an animal pops up, brake steady and avoid any swerving shenanigans.

Fight Fatigue

Night driving can be a snooze fest, literally. Watch out for signs of sleepiness like heavy eyelids or drifting out of your lane. Pull over for a breather if you need to – a quick stretch or a caffeine boost can do wonders for your alertness.

Map it Out

Know where you’re going before you hit the road. GPS is handy, but it’s not foolproof. Familiarize yourself with your route and keep an eye out for upcoming turns. Trust me, it beats scrambling for your phone in the middle of nowhere.

Stay Seen, Stay Sane

Lights on, folks. Even when it’s not pitch black outside, keep those headlights shining bright. And for the love of safe driving, dim those high beams when you’re sharing the road with others. Nobody likes being blinded by a beacon in the night.

Take a Breather

Long drives are exhausting, especially when the stars are out. Take breaks to stretch your legs, grab a snack, and recharge your batteries. If you’re feeling the fatigue creeping in, pull over and catch some Zs. Your destination can wait – safety first, always.

Ready to ace your night drives like a pro? Consider honing your skills with 911 Driving School. From defensive driving techniques to navigating challenging conditions, we’ve got you covered. Check us out and drive with confidence, day or night!