Kia's Partnership with B.R.A.K.E.S Aims to Reduce Teen Driving Fatalities

Kia's Commitment to Teen Driver Safety

Kia America has renewed its partnership with B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe), a national teen defensive driving program aimed at reducing automotive accidents, which are a leading cause of death among teenagers. By participating in the B.R.A.K.E.S. program, young drivers significantly lower their risk, with studies indicating a 64% decrease in accident rates within the three years following their training.

The Impact of the Training Program

The program, now in its twelfth year of collaboration with Kia, was initiated by Doug Herbert, a multi-time Top Fuel drag racing champion who understands the critical need for safety training in young drivers. Since its inception, B.R.A.K.E.S. has reached over 150,000 teens and their parents across the United States. The statistics speak volumes, showing that participants emerge as more skilled and responsible drivers, increasing safety for everyone on the road.

Russell Wager, the vice president of marketing for Kia America, stated, "Kia America is invested in the safety of drivers and passengers nationwide." The B.R.A.K.E.S. curriculum was designed to cover common scenarios that contribute to a significant number of traffic collisions among teens. This proactive approach equips young drivers with the skills they need to navigate potentially hazardous situations effectively.

Continued Support and Expansion

Kia not only provides financial backing but also contributes a fleet of Kia vehicles, including popular models like the Soul, Forte, Rio, Sorento, Sportage, Seltos, Telluride, and Carnival, to facilitate more training classes. Doug Herbert emphasized the importance of Kia’s support, stating, "Kia has played such a vital role in helping us grow, making our lifesaving program accessible to a record number of teens and their parents across the country."

As part of its commitment, the B.R.A.K.E.S. program travels to various cities across the nation, making it easier for families to access this essential training. Interested individuals can find updated schedules and registration information on their official website, www.putonthebrakes.org.

Kia's Recognition and Commitment to Sustainability

Beyond its involvement with B.R.A.K.E.S., Kia America stands out in the automotive industry for its quality and commitment to sustainability. The company is recognized as one of TIME's World's Most Sustainable Companies for 2024. Kia continues to push boundaries by offering a diverse range of vehicles, from gasoline and hybrid models to electric cars available through a network of over 775 U.S. dealers.

In summary, Kia America’s partnership with the B.R.A.K.E.S. program exemplifies its dedication to enhancing road safety for young drivers. The initiative not only aims to reduce the incidence of accidents but also fosters a culture of responsible driving among new drivers, ultimately contributing to safer communities nationwide.