craigdailypress.com

Craig Mortensen has taken a job many would consider dangerous. Most probably wouldn't even dare to take on the challenge, but all over America, others like him are tackling the job of driving instructor.

After 30 years of advising teenagers from the passenger side, Mortensen said he is relaxed, though it wasn't always an easy cruise around town. When he first started, he taught part-time.

"When I did one class hour a day, I was probably like most parents, really nervous about it. Now that I do it a lot, I know what to look for. I know what to anticipate," Mortensen said.

Douglas Harrington of Hayden and Garland Smith of Craig drove the white Subaru station wagon Wednesday morning during their first day of hands-on instruction. Smith prepared to make a left-hand turn, and then hesitated as oncoming traffic approached.

Mortensen coached Smith to make swift and safe decisions. In a steady, calm voice he reminded Smith to keep his hands on the wheel and to look in the rear-view mirror when braking. Smith responded well to Mortensen's easy style, calmly incorporating his teacher's advice.

One good thing about teaching teens to drive is that the students are motivated, Mortensen said.

"They want to drive and this is a big deal to them. They seem to be pretty excited about it," Mortensen said.

Smith confirmed his teacher's observations.

"I want my license just so I can go places. So I don't have to go with my mom all the time," Smith said.

Harrington agreed saying that because he lives about seven miles outside of Craig, being able to drive into town will make life easier. Now he either catches a lift or rides his bike to go places, he said.

Mortensen said driving is a good skill to have, but having a license may have its drawbacks.

"The worst thing about these kids is they get their license and they stop exercising," Mortensen said.

He said he knows this because of the mountain bike section of the advanced PE class he teaches at the high school.

"Without exception (the students) have not ridden their mountain bikes since they got their licenses," Mortensen said, adding that his students must often repair their bikes or replace rotting tires at the beginning of the class.

Harrington said he would drive more when he gets his license, but that he definitely would still ride his bike.

Smith agreed saying reports of rising obesity in the United States are enough to motivate him to get out and exercise.

Mortensen joked that rising gas prices might be another motivator for new drivers to keep fit.