Testing driver training programs for young new drivers
A Contemporary Look at Driver Training and Its Role in Reducing Crash Risk in Novice Adolescent Drivers
This study tests different driver training programs to see which one helps young new drivers stay safe and avoid crashes after they get their licenses.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 1300 (estimated) |
| Ages | 16 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT06413927 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of various driver training interventions aimed at reducing crash risks among young drivers shortly after they obtain their licenses. A thousand adolescent learner drivers in Pennsylvania will be recruited to participate in the study, which will track their driving behavior through a smartphone app and surveys over a six-month period post-licensure. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive one of three types of training: professional behind-the-wheel training, online vehicle and driver safety training, or online driver skills training. The study aims to provide insights into how different training methods can improve driving skills and safety for novice drivers.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adolescents aged 16-17 years old who reside in Pennsylvania and hold an active learner's permit.
Not a fit: Patients who are non-Pennsylvania residents or those who do not plan to obtain a driver's license within the next year may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce crash risks for young drivers, enhancing their safety on the road.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown some success in improving driving skills and reducing crashes with various training interventions, indicating that this approach has potential.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adolescents ages 16-17 years old who reside in Pennsylvania * Have an active Pennsylvania learner's permit * Have \<30 hours of driving practice during permit phase * Have never taken an on-road licensing exam, in any state * Plan to get a license within the next 12 months in Pennsylvania * Plan to have access to a vehicle to drive after licensure * Have a personal cell phone and access to a smartphone/tablet/computer with internet access * Download and use the RoadReady app (only required for participants randomized to the behind-the-wheel training arm; optional for participants randomized to the online vehicle and driver safety and online driver skills training arms) * Are able to read/write in English * Provide informed consent/assent * Are not also taking part in another learner driver study Exclusion Criteria: * Non-Pennsylvania resident * Participants who do not pass the license exam will not be able to complete the post-license monitoring until the license is obtained * Enrolled in another learner driver study
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Thomas Seacrist, MBE — Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Thomas Seacrist, MBE
- Email: seacrist@chop.edu
- Phone: 267-425-1547
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.