California launches driving simulation to improve teen road safety

The California Office of Traffic Safety and Caltrans have released ‘The Road Ahead,’ a free web-based driving simulation designed to improve safety among teenagers and new drivers. The interactive game uses first-person scenarios to teach users about the consequences of dangerous driving behaviors.

The simulation features three specific modules: ‘One Look Away,’ which addresses distracted driving and texting; ‘Caught Up in It,’ which focuses on peer pressure and speeding; and ‘One More Drive,’ which covers the risks of impaired driving. Each scenario provides safety tips and resources upon completion.

State officials introduced the tool in response to high crash risks among young motorists. In 2024, 451 California drivers aged 15 to 20 were involved in fatal traffic crashes. Nationally, distracted driving contributed to 3,208 deaths in 2024, including 186 teenagers.