Todd Avery, owner of the Ambler-based Safe Driving Coach, is a fixture in the community for good reason.
The Montgomery County resident has taught thousands of area teenagers to drive over the past 18 years. Safe Driving Coach focuses on defensive driving and specializes in working with students with executive functioning challenges and other special needs. Avery’s unique approach includes guidance for parents on how to effectively teach this essential life skill.
“Many car crashes are preventable,” Avery said. “It is critical to teach teens safe, defensive driving techniques so that we can prevent more crashes.”
Avery noted that the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day, referred to as the 100 Deadliest Days, are nationally known as the most dangerous time for teen drivers. The National Road Safety Foundation (NSRF) recommends a defensive driving course as part of their guidance and says that:
- Car accidents are the leading cause of death for American teens.
- Teen traffic deaths increase by more than 20 percent during the summer.
- Each year about 2,100 teen drivers are involved in fatal crashes, with 30
percent – seven deaths a day on average – occurring during the
Memorial Day to Labor Day period. - Distracted driving accounts for 60% of teen crashes.
“When it comes to driver behavior, it’s usually distraction – looking at your phone, not paying attention, drinking coffee, grabbing a bottle of water,” Avery said. “Distraction means your eyes aren’t on the road, so you run a red light or a stop sign. Distraction causes preventable car crashes.”
Avery advises parents to have real conversations with their teenagers instead of coming at them from a position of power.
“I recommend parents sit down and say, ‘Summer is a busy time, and statistics have shown us it is also the most dangerous,” Avery said. “I know you’re probably going to shake your head or roll your eyes, but just know that you should be more careful and defensive on the road because you can avoid a crash.”
He also emphasizes the importance of teaching the skills needed to prevent accidents caused by mechanical failure.
“New drivers need to learn what to do in case of a flat tire, or loss of brakes,” Avery said. “How someone responds to mechanical failure can impact whether or not a crash happens or how severe it is.”
He believes Safe Driving Coach has over 600 five-star reviews because he does not believe in teaching just to pass the driving test.
“Our driving coaches are not just checking off the boxes. We are completely focused on the students when we are in the car for a session,” Avery said. “We coach them to become safe, defensive drivers for their lifetime.”
Meet Todd Avery – Delaware Valley’s Trusted Driving Coach
Known throughout the Philadelphia suburban area for his deep passion for cars and approachable teaching style, Todd Avery has earned a reputation as one of the region’s most respected and sought-after driving coaches.
With over 18 years of experience, Todd has coached thousands of drivers — from teens getting behind the wheel for the first time to performance enthusiasts on the race track. Whether you’re learning the basics or refining advanced skills, Todd’s goal is the same: to help every student become a confident, capable, and safety-minded driver.
He brings a hands-on, personalized approach to driver education, emphasizing critical skills like vehicle control, situational awareness, and defensive driving techniques. Todd understands that learning to drive isn’t just about passing a test — it’s about building lifelong habits that keep you, your passengers, and everyone on the road safe.
Todd works with drivers of all ages and experience levels. Whether you just got your permit, need a refresher, or want to improve your skills behind the wheel, Todd will meet you where you are — with patience, insight, and a commitment to your success.
Todd’s philosophy is simple:
“I’m here to create the safest, most responsible drivers on the road. Teaching people how to drive — and how to drive well — is my passion. Every day, I have the opportunity to help someone become a better, more alert, and more confident driver. That’s what motivates me.”
Don’t just drive. Be a safe, aware defensive driver!
About Safe Driving Coach
- All driving coaches are trained and certified to provide expert instruction to drivers with special needs, including most learning difficulties, executive functioning issues, attention deficit disorders, and anxiety challenges.
- Safe Driving Coach offers programs that provide extensive driving instruction and address individual driver concerns. Each is tailored to the individual student’s schedule, requirements, and budget.
- A monthly blog offers timely guidance to drivers.
- Student & Parent Testimonials can be found here.
Photos: Safe Driving Coach