A new program in Johnston County aims to reduce the number of teenage driving deaths and accidents.

Since 2004, more than 500 teens have been killed in car accidents in North Carolina. Within the past year, 11 teenagers have died in crashes across Johnston County. That's the highest number in the state.

"Alive at 25" is designed to teach inexperienced drivers to become safer drivers. Instructors say they won't use fear tactics to teach, but rather encourage young drivers to want to be safe on the roads.

After watching nearly a dozen Johnston County teens die in car wrecks this year alone, the highway patrol and community leaders are taking action.

"We have to do something," said Smithfield Mayor, Norman Johnson. "Something has to be done. And being in the county seat of Johnston County we felt that it was appropriate if we start something here and maybe it will spread," he said.

The four hour course will be held after school tonight inside the town hall chambers in Smithfield.