Staff reports
Lakeport >> It’s been years since many older Lake County residents got their driver’s license. Yet the driving experience is significantly different from even a decade ago with changing vehicles, changing technology, changing road rules and even changing roadways. This five-hour refresher course March 2 is open to those that have taken the eight-hour course within the last four years.
Residents can refresh their skills and have the opportunity to save money on their car insurance with the new, enhanced AARP Smart Driver Course being offered at the Lakeport Senior Activity Center, 527 Konocti Ave. in Lakeport. Phone number is (707) 263-4218.
The five-hour course is being offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The volunteer instructor is Carol Deuel, her number is (707) 459-4928. The course requires that the participant contact Deuel and register for the course with application and payment before the course start date. The course requires a minimum of 10 participants and a maximum of 15.
The cost of the course is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-AARP members. The course helps drivers 50 and older stay current with driving laws and new technologies inside and outside of vehicles.
There will be two 10-minute breaks but we will not break for lunch. You can bring snacks to enjoy during class or bring a sack lunch.
Participants will also learn defensive driving skills, proven safety strategies and how to manage and accommodate common age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time.
“Since 1979, AARP Driver Safety has helped over 15 million drivers stay safe, educated and confident behind the wheel. Every driver can benefit from a refresher,” said Julie E. Lee, retired vice president and national director of AARP Driver Safety.
Many participants may be eligible for a multi-year insurance discount after taking the course. Participants are encouraged to check with their insurance agent to see if they are eligible. Attendance is required but there are no tests required to pass the course.
