Teens learn safe driving skills with the help of nonprofit program

POMONA, Calif. (KABC) -- A new program teaches teens the skills they need to drive safely.

This weekend, teenage drivers will be getting some serious pointers through a program called BRAKES, which stands for Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe. It was started by professional drag racer Doug Herbert after a tragedy hit his own family.

"[In] 2008 my two boys, John and James, were killed in a car accident so I wanted to try and help. I wanted to make a difference and found out that teenage driving accidents are the No. 1 thing that kills teenagers and so we decided to start this program called BRAKES," he said.

The nonprofit program has been touring the country recently and is now getting support from the NHRA Motorsports Museum and the Chrysler Foundation.

Young drivers are put through practical exercise such as properly using modern anti-lock brakes. Most importantly, the teens learn about distracted driving.

The four-hour session is free, but potential drivers have to sign up online and leave a $100 deposit that is refunded back when people show up to the class.

For more information, you can visit www.putonthebrakes.com.