Community Outreach
Driver Safety and Share the Road Class
During 2014, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department instituted a free young adult driver awareness class. This class educates drivers over the age of 18 years old on how to avoid driving distractions, such as technology, and passengers. Impaired driving is also discussed with the focus being on alcohol and drugs use alone, or the combination of both. This class is usually held at local universities as part of a freshman orientation and is open to all that would like to attend.
Teen Driver Safety Program
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department began a free teenage driver safety program during 2011. The program focuses on impaired driving, distracted driving, and general traffic safety. The 4 hour class is held on select Saturdays throughout the year and is offered to high school teens that reside in any county.
Preregistration is required and can be completed for the specific date you would like your teen to attend.
Learn more about the Teen/Graduated License
Share the Road
Tips for Bike Riders
- Follow the Law: Bicycle riders have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers.
- Be Predictable: Make your intentions clear. Ride in a straight line, use hand signals and ride predictably.
- Be Visible: Ride where road users can see you, wear bright clothing and use lights.
- Think Ahead: Plan your turns in advance and stay alert for other bicycles, pedestrians and cars.
- Check Your Equipment: Make sure your bicycle is functioning(air, brakes, and chain, quick release levers closed). Adjust your helmet to fit.
Tips for Car Drivers
- Follow the Law: Bicycles have the same right to the road as cars. Treat bicycle riders with respect and with the same traffic principles as other vehicles.
- Be Predictable: Use turn signals, stop at all stop signs, follow the speed limit and slow down around bicycles.
- Be Alert: Look twice for bicycle riders, especially when turning. Never text and drive!
- Give 3 feet: Motor vehicles MUST give bicycle riders 3 FEET of space when passing. It's safer. It's the law.
- Watch your door: Check before you open your door so you don't hit a bicycle rider.
- We're all just people: Treat all road users with respect and expect the same. We're all part of the same community!
Related Traffic Safety Information
- Traffic Safety Frequently Asked Questions
- Outstanding Fatal and Life-Threatening Hit and Run Crash Cases
- Quarterly Traffic Newsletter
- Traffic Law Updates
- Bicycle Safety Tips
- Safe Walking Tips
- Senior Driving Safety Tips
- Seatbelts, Child Restraint, and Riding in Truck Beds Information
- Motorcycle Laws in Tennessee
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving Victim Services
- Adult Bike Classes
- Walk Bike Nashville
Traffic Safety Links
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Last Call
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Pedestrian Safety
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Technology and Innovation
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Teen Driving
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving
- Students Against Drunk Driving
- Tennessee Highway Safety Office
- Child Passenger Safety (State of Tennessee)
- The Faces of Distracted Driving
- Tennessee Car Insurance Guide