More teenagers die in auto wrecks than from any other cause. No one is too cool for the safety belt and there is no such thing as being a too cautious driver. Be aware and conscious of the rules on the road. Begin your journey toward becoming a safer and more responsible driver with the tips below.
General Teen Driving Tips
• Wear your seat belt. Make sure your passengers do as well.
• Obey the speed limit. Excess speed is one of the main causes of teenage accidents.
• Be a defensive driver, not an offensive driver.
• Have a flat tire plan. Make sure you have a spare and the correct tools in your trunk for changing flats. (Even if you have an AAA card, you should still know how to change a tire.)
• Make sure your radio is at a reasonable volume. If the volume is too loud, you could miss audio cues outside your car, such as horns.
• Don't drink and drive, and don't ride with anyone who has been drinking. Make a plan with your family in case you are unable to drive due to excessive drinking.
• Know your area's laws regarding talking on cell phones while driving. Even if your local laws allow driving with cell phones, don't talk on the phone while driving! Park when you use your phone.
• Maintain your car! Check frequently to make sure that your car is in tip-top shape. That includes belts, hoses, fluids, tires and more!
Numbers Don't Lie
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers
16 year-olds have higher crash rates than drivers of any other age.
In the last decade, over 68,000 teens have died in car crashes
Don't be a statistic. For more facts like these click here
Parental Involvement
Parents can get involved too! You are an important factor in this rights of passage for your young adult. What you say or do not say has a HUGE impact. For tips on how to be active and influential your young driver's experences click here.
