When a teenager gets their license, it becomes an exciting time for the whole household. While the idea of sending your kid out to the store for milk, or that their child can have some more independence, there is something else parents should keep in mind. The roadways for teen drivers are more dangerous than parents may expect.
Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death in teenagers, and six teens die every day due to these accidents. Parents can help their children avoid catastrophic accidents by sharing these essential tips for driving:
The cellphone can wait
Cellphones may be the leading cause of distraction in teen drivers. It may seem innocent enough just to read a text or to enter a new destination to a GPS, but even a few seconds of not looking at the road is the same as driving blindfolded on a freeway for hundreds of yards. If possible, keep cellphones out of sight while driving.
Do not multitask
When someone is driving, the road should be the only thing they are focusing on. Additional tasks like reaching for something, applying makeup, eating or drinking, or using a cellphone can all pull a driver’s focus from where it needs to be. Take a few moments before driving to take care of any last-minute business. If something needs your immediate attention, pull over to a safe location to address the matter.
Never drive drunk
Buzzed driving is drunk driving, period. If you are not safe to drive, call a friend or rideshare to get back home. Even calling your parents is a better alternative to getting behind the wheel of a car while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Looking to avoid getting in trouble is never an acceptable reason to endanger the lives of yourself and those around you.
Even the most experienced drivers can make rookie mistakes that result in serious accidents. Keep your focus on driving, and avoid any unnecessary distractions on the road.