EchoPark Automotive Helps Teens Avoid Dangers of Distracted Driving

EchoPark Automotive, a specialty automotive retailer with locations in Thornton, Centennial and Highlands Ranch, is offering a complimentary one-hour hands-on training and driving experience for teens.

The event, which will take place June 6 at EchoPark’s Thornton location, will feature tips and guidance on how young drivers can make our roads and highways safer for all.  Experts will demonstrate how the right seating position, mirror adjustment and shuffle steering can make driving safer, and how paying attention to the road allows motorists to respond quickly to changing traffic patterns and other hazardous conditions.

“With the widespread use of smart phones and other mobile devices, distractions have become a major factor leading to auto accidents, especially among younger, less experienced drivers,” said Jeff Matthews, CEO of EchoPark Automotive. “This complimentary event will give teens the information and guidance they need to make smart decisions out on the road.  By taking a few simple steps, such as increasing their visibility and avoiding common distractions, they can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents occurring.  EchoPark wants to help make that possible.”

Distracted driving has become a major issue both in Colorado and across the country.  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 400,000 people per year are injured in crashes resulting from this activity, and about 10 percent of motorists under the age of 20 involved in fatal accidents were distracted at the time of the crash.  It takes an average of five seconds to respond to a text message, enough time to travel the length of a football field at 55 miles per hour.

The June 6 event will also feature a number of driving exercises, including a slalom course for anti-lock braking, the use of proper vision technique, shuffle steering and a demonstration on how distractions can drastically impact one’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

“This is a great opportunity for us to give back to our community and share some of our specialized knowledge with the public,” said Matthews. “We look forward to welcoming young drivers and their families to this fun, informative event.”

EchoPark Automotive’s Thornton location is at 500 E. 104^th St., just off exit 221 of Highway I-25. To learn more about EchoPark Automotive and the June 6 distracted driving seminar, visit https://www.echopark.com/distracted-driving-event.htm.

Please visit www.echopark.com for company information, community events and additional information.

About EchoPark Automotive

At Echo Park Automotive, you will find a comprehensive selection of used cars, trucks and SUVs to choose from, including both domestic and import models. With three locations just outside of Denver and a friendly team of experience guides, we help you find the perfect pre-owned model at a price that fits within your budget. If you are in the market for a quality pre-owned Subaru, Nissan, Kia, Jeep or Honda, turn to us.