Free Driving School Gets Teen Drivers Revved Up for Safety Second Class Scheduled Due to Huge Interest

DAYTONA BEACH – A recent Teen Safety Driving School – presented by Gary Yeoman’s Ford Lincoln and the Port Orange-based law firm of Rue & Ziffra – filled up so quickly that nearly one third of the 150 youths interested in the one-day class were told they would have to sign up for another session this Spring.

“When we decided to sponsor the class we expected it would be of interest to teenagers and their parents, but we had no idea it would be so popular,” said Allan Ziffra, a partner in the personal-injury firm. “So, to accommodate those who missed out, we hope to offer another class in a few months.”

The Feb. 18 class, which was taught at the Daytona Auto Mall by professional instructors, filled up a week before the deadline. Students who participated in the 2½-hour sessions were instructed in the fundamentals of driving, as well as the dangers, according to Carlos Lira, general manager at Gary Yeoman’s.

“The parents were happy, the kids were happy and I think everyone was surprised at how much they actually learned,” Lira said. He said the young drivers used their own vehicles or cars provided by the dealership that had drifters installed on them for better control.

Of the 100 students in the class, about a dozen were the children of several Rue & Ziffra employees, including law partners Kim Bouck and Allan L. Ziffra. Lira’s son, Michael – an aspiring race car driver – also participated in the course.

“Even though my son knows a lot about driving, I think he was really impressed with the course itself,” Lira said. “It was great to be part of something that benefitted not only my son, but so many others in the community.”

Lira said a date hasn’t been set yet, but Gary Yeoman’s plans to partner with Rue & Ziffra sometime in April or May for a second driving class. Just as the recent class was, the spring session will be open to Volusia and Flagler county drivers between the ages of 15 and 19 who have either a valid Florida Driver’s License or a permit. Those interested in participating can watch for details on either company’s website at www.rueziffra.com or www.garyyeomansford.com.