Driving is an exciting milestone for teens, but it comes with significant responsibility for both their safety and the safety of others. Inexperienced, younger drivers are at a higher risk of being involved in a motor vehicle crash. Teens aged 16-19 have a fatal crash rate almost three times higher than older drivers, per mile driven. Whether they’re commuting to school, heading to an extracurricular activity, or simply enjoying a drive, practicing safe driving habits is crucial to preventing crashes. Here are some basic tips to share with your teen before they hit the road.
Buckle Up
The first rule of safe driving is to always wear a seatbelt. Seatbelts are an easy and proven way to protect yourself in the event of a crash. They prevent you from being ejected from the vehicle and reduce the risk of serious injury from airbag impact. Wearing a seatbelt in the front seat of a car can reduce your risk of fatal injury by 45%. Remind your teen that seat belts should be worn at all times, no matter how short the trip. Instilling this habit early can make a huge difference in their safety on the road.
Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving poses a significant risk for all drivers but can be particularly dangerous for young, inexperienced drivers. In 2021, teens aged 15-19 accounted for 8% of distracted drivers involved in fatal crashes. Encourage your teen to put their phone away while driving. Texting, scrolling through social media, or making phone calls can wait until they’ve safely reached their destination. Additionally, eating, adjusting the radio, or even engaging in animated conversations with passengers can divert their attention from the road. Emphasize the importance of focusing solely on driving. Explain that it only takes a split second of distraction for an accident to occur, and the consequences can be devastating.
Obey Speed Limits
Speeding is a common cause of accidents among young drivers. Many teens may not fully appreciate the dangers of speeding, believing it’s more important to keep up with traffic or to reach their destination quickly. The rate of fatal crashes involving speeding is higher for teenage drivers than for other age groups. Speed limits are established based on thorough research and are designed to protect everyone on the road. Help your teen understand that driving within speed limits gives them more time to react to unexpected situations, reducing the risk of an accident.
Limit Night Driving
Night driving can be particularly challenging for new drivers due to reduced visibility and increased fatigue. In 2022, 45% of fatal teen crashes occurred between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. If your teen is inexperienced, limit their driving at night until they are more confident behind the wheel. Make sure they understand the increased risks that come with nighttime driving. Encourage them to drive slower, keep their headlights on, and be extra cautious. Practicing night driving with an experienced driver can also help them gain the confidence and skills they need.
Don’t Drive Under the Influence
It’s crucial to educate your teen about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Although they are legally underage, 22% of teen drivers involved in fatal accidents in 2021 were alcohol-impaired. Make sure your teen understands that their reaction times, judgment, and coordination can be significantly affected, even if they don’t feel drunk or high. Reinforce the message that they should never get into a car with someone who has been drinking or using drugs and should always have a safe way to get home, whether it’s calling a parent, a rideshare service, or using public transportation.
Having these conversations with your teen is crucial for their safety on the road. Remember, your actions often speak louder than words. When your teen sees you following the rules and driving responsibly, they’re more likely to adopt those same behaviors. Use the time spent in the car together to discuss safe driving practices. Leading by example is one of the most effective ways to teach your teen to be a safe driver.
Additionally, ensure both you and your teen are financially protected with a reliable auto insurance policy. Reach out to one of our agents today to learn about our auto insurance options or to review your current coverage and make sure it’s up-to-date.
Disclaimer: The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts.
Sources
Governors Highway Safety Association
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
U.S. Department of Transportation
National Highway Transportation Association
