Cars and Motorcycles

One of the most exciting moments for a teenager is when they get their driver’s license. However, it’s also one of the most terrifying for parents! All of a sudden, your teen is in control of a two-ton vehicle! (It’s also scary to think of how quickly they are growing up!) There are some things you really must know before your teen starts driving in order to help keep them a little bit safer out there on the road.

#1 Driving While Talking on a Cell Phone Reduces Reaction Time

If your teen talks or texts on their cell while driving, their reaction time can be as impaired as if they were driving with a blood alcohol level of .08%! More and more states are starting to pass laws and regulations regarding the use of wireless devices due to the increasing number of accidents caused by their use. Make sure your teen knows that using their cell phone while driving is not acceptable for any reason.

#2 Three Out of Four Teens Admit to Speeding Regularily

We’ve all exceeded the speed limit at one time or another. However, speeding is a contribuiting factor in 31% of all fatality accidents. Among fatality accidents involving males between the ages of 15 and 20, 37% were speeding at the time of the accident. It’s difficult for teenagers to understand how important it is to drive the speed limit all the time. The NTSB offers educational videos that show the dangers of speeding, as well as some extremely sobering statistics. This may be one way to get the message across to your teen.

#3 Rural Driving Is More Dangerous

While you may think that it’s safer for your teen to drive because they don’t live in a metropolitan area, it’s far from the truth. Rural teenage drivers are twice as likely to be involved in an accident than teens that spend most of their time driving in a city. Speeding, narrow roads, deer, and less maintained roadways are some of the reasons why rural driving is more dangerous. If you live in a rural area, make sure your teen understands the specific driving risks associated with rural driving.

A Final Thougth

While your teen is likely ecstatic to have their driver’s license, remind them that driving is a privilege and not a right. You certainly have the right to take their keys away for unsafe driving or for making the wrong choices. Put your foot down and keep your child as safe as you can!