Fall 2023

Owner of Drive Carmel Bill Perlstein, a retired California Highway Patrol Captain, teach- es students to drive thoughtfully, through an engaging in-person learning program. A fter decades of experience as a California Highway Patrol Captain, William “Bill” Perlstein has seen his share of tragic accidents on the roadways. When he retired, he looked for a way to continue to try to keep people safe. He purchased Drive Carmel, a driver’s training program that is unique in that the behind-the-wheel and instructor training were developed by another member of law enforce- ment, retired CHP Officer Richard Richards. Perlstein developed the educational curricu- lum for the program based on his many years of experience. “I wanted to teach students the reality of the driving world that I’ve seen,” he says. “I’m the only person in the region that I’m aware of who doesn’t use online training. Learning in person engages the students much more and I include a parent meeting.” Behind the wheel, Perlstein has found stu- dents who have no idea of the difference between the gas pedal and the brake, which he calmly helps them master in all-new SUVs that he purchased for the school. His biggest concern for drivers remains texting and driving, and he shares tragic stories to underscore the importance of paying attention to the road. “I teach them things that I’ve experienced in my career that I hope will keep them safe and alive,” Perlstein says. For more information, visit www.drivecarmel. com or call 831/625-3994. Dr ive Carmel Trains Students to Stay Safe and Aware B Y B R E T T WI L BUR SHORT CUTS AT LARGE 80 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 3 Photo: Kelli Uldall