Kia Supports B.R.A.K.E.S. Training to Reduce Teen Traffic Accidents

Kia's Commitment to Teen Driver Safety

Kia America has taken a significant step in addressing a global crisis: automotive accidents remain one of the leading causes of death among teenagers. In a dedicated effort to enhance road safety, Kia has renewed its support for the B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe) program, a national defense driving initiative focused on educating young drivers.

Recent research commissioned by B.R.A.K.E.S. and conducted by Dr. Paul Friday from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte reveals striking results. The study indicates that graduates of the B.R.A.K.E.S. program experience a remarkable 64% decrease in the likelihood of being involved in traffic accidents during their first three years behind the wheel. This statistic underscores the effectiveness of proactive driver education.

Russell Wager, Vice President of Marketing at Kia America, expressed the company's commitment to safety, stating, "Kia America is devoted to the safety of drivers and passengers across the nation. The B.R.A.K.E.S. curriculum provides essential training that educates young drivers about the common scenarios leading to many traffic collisions involving adolescents. We are proud to partner with B.R.A.K.E.S., supporting their mission of creating safer roads for everyone."

The partnership has thrived for over 12 years, with the B.R.A.K.E.S. program founded by Doug Herbert, a Top Fuel drag racer. This initiative continues to grow, reaching more than 150,000 teens and parents across the nation. Kia has generously contributed a fleet of vehicles, including models such as the Soul, Forte, Rio, Sorento, Sportage, Seltos, Telluride, and Carnival, facilitating the expansion of B.R.A.K.E.S. classes.

Doug Herbert, the founder of B.R.A.K.E.S., shared his gratitude, acknowledging Kia's role in making the lifesaving program accessible to record numbers of adolescents and their parents. Herbert expressed, "We are deeply thankful for the tremendous support our proactive driver training program has received from our friends at Kia America. Kia has played a pivotal role in our growth and success."

The B.R.A.K.E.S. program offers sessions nationwide, equipping young drivers with vital skills for safe driving. Those interested in participating can find updated information and registration details at www.putonthebrakes.org.

About Kia America

Established in Irvine, California, Kia America consistently ranks high in automotive quality surveys. The company has been recognized by TIME as one of the most sustainable companies in 2024. As the official automotive partner of the NBA and WNBA, Kia offers a range of vehicles, including gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric models, available through a network of over 775 dealers in the U.S. Moreover, some models like the 2025 EV9 and Telluride are assembled in the U.S., using both American and global parts.

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