KINGSLEY -- "Hiding your inexperience doesn't make you experienced- it just makes you a liar"  - Tarren Thomas

The Thomas family of Kingsley has a teen driver -  and he has come up with a way to keep everyone on the roads safer.

Tarren Thomas came up with the idea of a magnet that says "We All Had To Learn-NEW DRIVER-Please Be Considerate." He says reading an Allstate study with the results showing car crashes being the number one cause of loss of life for teen drivers was his motivation.

He took his idea to his Dad, Don, who had the knowledge and the resources to put the idea into action- Don owns Victory Printing and is a consultant for Scheck's Sign Systems. So the family designed the magnets, and through a joint project they are printed at Scheck's in Kingsley. Tarren's mom, Rebecca, said they thought it was an innovative idea that would benefit others as well, and that's why they wanted to help bring it to fruition. Tarren said the goal is for experienced drivers to quickly and easily see the new driver sign, realize that person isn't an experienced driver, and give them a little more space and be a little more patient out on the roads.

Both of Tarren's parents talked about how proud they are of their son and think he's showing great confidence to admit he's still learning. Don said it's a good tool to easily make nearby drivers aware that's why their car may be going a bit slower or possibly forgetting a turn signal, and hopes other experienced drivers will therefore have more patience. Rebecca discussed how it also makes it easier for parents to ride with their kids while they're learning - that as a parent, you're not as stressed about what others may be thinking, asking yourself if others are wondering why this driver made a mistake, and the bottom line is- it does keep other people safe.

Tarren's sister, Tiandra, said she feels safer as a passenger with the magnet on the side.

The Thomas family is excited about getting the word out about the magnets, and hopes to approach state legislature, local schools, and local drivers ed. offices.

The magnets are available in red or blue at the moment, in large or small, in regular or reflective, and go for as little as 5 bucks a piece. You can get more information or order a magnet on: the Grand Traverse Online Garage Sale Facebook page, VictoryPrinting.net, or call Scheck's Sign Systems at 231-263-5220.

The family stressed it's not about making money, but about keeping people safe.

Tarren Thomas wants you to keep one thing in mind: "I don't care how cool you think you are- you don't know everything. I'll admit I don't know everything, I'm still making mistakes every time I drive. I think you should get this magnet because when you do get this magnet on, you're protecting those around you and those you care about."