Safety Center offers a state of the art driving simulator created by Virtual Driver Interactive, an immersive driver training experience designed for teenagers or newly licensed drivers. The course is also available to anyone who wants to become a safer driver, or even to young teens who want to learn what driving is like. Driver safety simulator programs are a proven intervention to help those who participate become better drivers, especially those who are just starting to drive.
The simulator takes you through a variety of situations, such as intersections and driving in parking lots. Safety Center also offers One Simple Decision, an impaired and distracted driving experience to warn participants about the dangers of texting or drinking while driving.
The main driving simulator is experienced through two 2 hour sessions, and One Simple Decision is experienced in a 15 minute add-on session that can be completed during your first or second session or both if you prefer.
You do not need to bring anything to the class, but you are free to bring water. Food and drinks other than water are not allowed. If you complete the course and pass, you will be emailed a certificate of completion, as well as your comprehensive results. If you have any questions, refer to the FAQ or feel free to call us at 916.366.7233 or email for more information.
FAQ
Can my teen use the simulator if they are prone to motion sickness?
- Everybody experiences digital driving experiences differently, but if your teen is prone to motion sickness they have a higher likelihood of feeling sick while using the simulator.
What is the software used in the simulators?
- For the Teen Driver Safety Program, the program used is VDI’s Virtual Driving EssentialsTM. For the Distracted Driving Program, the program used is VDI’s One Simple DecisionTM.
On what days are the classes offered?
- Classes are offered, by appointment only, on Wednesday through Saturday, from 8 A.M to 5 P.M. OSD is only available on Fridays and Saturdays.
How is the driving program scored and what is required to pass?
- Each lesson begins with a total of 100 points. Points are deducted for mistakes while driving, such as failing to use a turn signal or not looking both ways at an intersection. Deductions for infractions may be for as few as one point all the way up to an immediate failure. To pass a lesson, participant’s score cannot go below 80. If the score does go below 80, the participant is able to retry the lesson in order to achieve a better score.
What if the participant feels sick during the simulator?
- If the participant experiences motion sickness while using the simulator, they are free to get up from the simulator and take a small break. If the participant cannot complete the simulation, advise the supervising staff member to be fully refunded. Supervising staff will contact you, if you are not present, and your teen feels too sick to continue with the simulation.
How much does the program cost and when do I have to pay?
- Program costs can be seen when scheduling the appointment. Payment is required before the first appointment.
Do I need to stay with my teen while they are in the simulator?
- There will be supervision while your teen is in the simulator, therefore you do not need to be present.
What if participant has any questions or difficulties while experiencing the simulation?
- A team member will supervise the simulator training and is available to answer questions and provide assistance, as needed.
What are the key areas of driving that the simulation covers?
- The simulation has 16 distinct lessons, including a tutorial, a pre driving assessment, and a post driving assessment. The full list of lessons can be found here (Virtual Driving Essentials – Virtual Driver Interactive – Driver Training Simulator). Some key focus areas are spatial awareness, knowing the environment around you, and where to make sure to look while driving.
Is there an age limit on the simulators?
- Yes. Children under the age of 13 are not permitted to be on the simulators.
What is the refund and rescheduling policy?
- If you request a refund prior to 48 hours of the date of your appointment, you are entitled to a full refund, less a $15 administration fee. Requests to reschedule less than 48 hours before the appointment or for a missed appointment will incur an additional $25 reschedule fee.
What if I am unable to finish the program in two appointments?
- If you are unable to complete the program in two appointments and need to schedule a third appointment, there is a $50 fee to schedule the additional appointment.