Ford Helps New Drivers Gain Essential Skills Through Hands-On Training
Ford's Driving Skills for Life program offers teens hands-on emergency driving practice to build confidence and reduce risky behaviors.
- 2003
What Happened
Ford's Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program provides newly permitted and licensed teen drivers with hands-on training in a controlled environment. Students practice recovering from skids, learn how distractions affect response times, and get familiar with safety features like antilock brakes and ADAS such as lane keeping and intelligent speed assist. The program aims to reduce risky behaviors and build confidence through experiential learning.
“The driving instructor took the time to explain the 'why' behind everything — from what to do in an accident to how to properly use all the safety features in the vehicle. It was far more information than traditional driver's ed.”
DSFL also trains parents to be better coaches, extending the program's impact beyond the course. Ford Philanthropy has supported the program for over 20 years, partnering with the Governors Highway Safety Association to bring clinics to communities nationwide. New this year, some courses are tied to local events like NASCAR races to highlight the connection between precision driving and safety.
Why this matters
New teen drivers lack experience and are vulnerable to accidents. Ford's program provides controlled training to develop safe driving habits and muscle memory, helping to prevent crashes.
Terms in This Story
- ADAS
- Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems, such as lane keeping and adaptive cruise control, that help drivers with safety and convenience.
- hydroplaning
- A loss of traction when a layer of water builds up between a vehicle's tires and the road surface, causing the driver to lose control.
- antilock braking system (ABS)
- A safety system that prevents wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.