SkidCar Training

Deschutes County SkidCar Training is an all-weather driver training program that incorporates the SKIDCAR System^®. The SKIDCAR framework attaches to the suspension of a training vehicle, allowing the instructor to raise and lower the front and rear tires independently with a controller. This system allows drivers to experience the inclement driving conditions that cause a vehicle to lose traction in a safe and controlled learning environment.

SkidCar Training includes one hour of classroom instruction followed by three hours of hands-on driving in the training vehicle. The instructor will cover various techniques, including proper eye placement, acceleration, braking, steering, weight distribution and energy management, as well as tire decisions and maintenance. The instructor will also demonstrate how modern vehicle safety systems, such as anti-lock brakes, electronic traction control and electronic stability control, operate to enhance vehicle control and safety. Participants will learn the differences between front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, as well as practice skid prevention, control and recovery.

The course is taught by retired Deschutes County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Michael Johnston, a certified instructor with over 30 years of experience in law enforcement. He has completed over 4,000 hours of training through the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, where he now serves as a Senior Instructor. He was also the lead instructor for the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) training program and played a key role in bringing the SkidCar Training program to Deschutes County in 1998.

SkidCar Training is available year-round and classes are offered seven days a week (starting at 8:00 am or 1:00 pm). Classes are limited to three participants each—private classes are not available for any individual or group. SkidCar Training is available to the general public for a fee of $100.00 per person, and free for current Deschutes County employees, volunteers and interns. Gift certificates are available for purchase through Deschutes County Risk Management.