Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear Announces Safe Teen Driving Challenge with $5,000 in Cash Prizes

The challenge rewards the top four drivers with cash prizes, sponsored by AAA Blue Grass and AAA East Central.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – Gov. Andy Beshear is calling upon all teen drivers in Kentucky to participate in the Safe Teen Driving Challenge and compete for a share of $5,000 in cash prizes to improve highway safety and reduce crashes.

The governor joined Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) officials and partners from AAA Blue Grass, AAA East Central and Cambridge Mobile Telematics at Franklin County High School to announce the registration start for the challenge.

Over the past three years, Kentucky roads have seen more than 47,000 crashes involving teen drivers, resulting in over 13,000 injuries and 210 tragic deaths. The Safe Teen Driving Challenge, managed by KYTC, aims to change that by encouraging young drivers to build better habits and stay focused behind the wheel.

“As governor, but also as the dad of two teenagers who I love more than anything, making sure all our drivers are safe on the roadways is a top priority,” Beshear said. “This new contest is a positive incentive for new drivers to be as safe as possible and to win a cash prize and be named Kentucky’s safest teen driver. We want this generation to be leaders in helping us have fewer crashes and fatalities.”

The challenge rewards the top four drivers with cash prizes, sponsored by AAA Blue Grass and AAA East Central:

1st Place: $2,000

2nd Place: $1,500

3rd Place: $1,000

4th Place: $500

“It’s important for young drivers to be reminded of the dangers of driving distracted,” said Lori Weaver Hawkins, AAA Blue Grass public and government affairs manager. “Good driving behaviors they can develop now, can lead to safe driving behaviors throughout their lifetimes. Driving distracted is just as dangerous as driving impaired. AAA Blue Grass urges teens to stay focused on the roadway, keeping themselves and other road users safe now – and in the future.”

The challenge is open to 16-to-19-year-old drivers with a valid permit or driver’s license and a smartphone. Parental consent is required for drivers under 18. To join, teens simply:

--Register by Friday, Jan. 24, 2025 (cut-off is 11:59 p.m.).

--Download the DriveWell Go™ app, create a new account, and enter the contest token code.

--Drive safe, track your performance, and compete for the chance to win a prize.

For more information and to register, visit https://kentuckyhighwaysafety.com/safe-teen-driving-challenge/. Winners will be announced in April.