Bedford County Driving School was among only a handful of Tennessee classes recently receiving the National Safety Council's "2018 Training Center of the Year" award.

"I didn't even know anything about it, until I got the award in the mail," said Bedford County Chief Deputy Nikia Elliott, one of the teachers.

NSC stated the award is for Bedford County's "defensive driving" and "four-hour classroom" work. The local school, which meets weekly is certified through NSC.

The main stated goal of NSC is pretty plain and simple: Create self-awareness around the challenges associated with driving in today's society. And for good reason as NSC reports that more than 40,000 persons died on U.S. roadways due to vehicle crashes.

*** Local class

Other Bedford County driving school instructors are Bedford County Circuit Court Clerk Michelle Murray and Charles Kimbril.

Bedford County's class meets 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Mondays in Bedford County Business Complex (the old Medical Arts building) at 200 Dover St. There is a $150 cost, which can be paid only by cash or money order.

"If someone gets a speeding ticket, they have to either come to my office or call and set up a time for the driving school," said Murray. "It saves the person money to attend the driving school and (the ticket) does not go on their record if they attend."

Monday night's sessions, however, are not designed for commercial drivers.

Those attending the training class address personal responsibility, defensive and impaired driving. Participants will also learn from seasoned experts like Elliott about what to watch for in other drivers' behaviors and how to maintain safe and legal behaviors while behind the wheel.

*** Discounts

Bedford County's defensive driving course is required for insurance discounts.

Teachers provide tools, tips and techniques that offer positive choices in regard to driving decisions. Class instructors also note it can be a great motivational tool for safe driving.

Throughout the 4-hour course, participants learn how to recognize both potential and immediate hazards, how to avoid collisions in a variety of driving conditions and how to choose safe and legal driving behaviors.

Among those in Tennessee also receiving the training school award were Blount County Probation, Milan Police Department, Johnson City Police and the Metro Nashville court system.

NSC is chartered by Congress and recognized for its leadership in safety programs and advocacy. Since 1964, the safety organization has trained more than 75 million drivers in all 50 states and around the world.