Safe driving program to reward teen with car on Saturday

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) - To encourage safe driving, the City of St. Joseph has partnered with local businesses and organizations to create the "I'm a Safe Driver" program, with one student set to take home a new car Saturday at Reed Automotive.

Organizations involved include the St. Joseph Police Department, KJ105.5/Q Country 92.7, Reed Automotive Group, the Missouri Department of Transportation Highway Safety Division and Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 3.

The program is designed to promote safe driving habits among high school students by rewarding their progress. Students who are at least 15 years old, have a learner's permit and maintain a safe driving record are eligible to enroll and potentially win gift cards and a used car from Reed.

Winners will be announced Saturday, April 25, at Reed Automotive Group, where members of each organization will present prizes.

"We get together annually, cook hot dogs, celebrate the achievement of young drivers for having safe driving behaviors" SJPD Sgt. Patrick Zeamer said. "This is meant to help them be conscious of their driving and reward them for a good driving throughout the year. This helps reduce the risk of them getting in serious crashes, obeying the traffic laws and be aware the consequences to their actions."

The car winner will be able to select a used vehicle from Reed. The company will handle required safety inspections, insurance policies and registration. The winner must be at least 18 to sign for the vehicle; a guardian's signature is required for anyone younger.

The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Reed Automotive Group, 4525 Commons Drive.

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