Auto insurer Progressive said it is sending out a truck full of driving simulators to public events in Western states so people can test their ability behind the wheel.

The company said it has teamed up with Metro City Group, owner of a 68-foot multimedia-equipped tractor-trailer, to transport the equipment that lets drivers test their skills in practical behind-the-wheel driving situations in a safe, virtual environment.

Progressive said people who experience the Progressive Driving Skills Simulator will increase their knowledge of the rules of the road and be better equipped to handle any driving situation.

Inside the truck are 14 testing stations outfitted with computers, high definition monitor screens, adjustable leather chairs, headphones and “force feedback” steering wheels powering what Metro City calls “the most realistic driving simulation software available.”

A spokesperson for Progressive said the free test, which takes from six to 10 minutes, is given to participants on a first-come-first-served basis.

The driving course curriculum, it was explained, includes real-life situations – such as driving in high traffic, congested areas, through foggy or rainy weather or simply passing and yielding to other drivers – and measures drivers' responses, reaction times, crash reduction techniques and general driving knowledge.

Mike Storbeck, Progressive product manager, said the Progressive Driving Skills Simulator “gives people the chance to 'test drive' their skills in all types of driving situations, which we hope will prepare them for driving on the real – not virtual – road.”

“Our objective has always been to redefine driver's education and provide a practical training program that gives people a chance to test, and practice, their skills in a safe, simulated environment,” explained Tim Albright, president of Metro City Group, which owns the simulator.

Over the next several months, the Progressive Driving Skills Simulator is scheduled for Western area events including Motor Trend Auto Shows, state fairs and other automotive industry-related events.

The simulator is presently located at the Orange County Auto Show Anaheim, Calif. and will be there until Sunday.

A schedule of events is listed at www.streetsimulator.com.

Progressive Group of Insurance Companies is the country's third largest auto insurance group and largest seller of motorcycle and personal watercraft policies based on premiums written.

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Auto Insurer Takes Driving Simulators To Fairs

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