Once we reach mid-April, a whirlwind of shopping for tuxedos, dresses, flowers, dinner reservations, hair appointments, all come at you at once. It’s prom season. With prom season comes a great deal of tasks that have to be put together in order to make sure your high schooler has all the needed "parts" for the special night.
The goal: Have fun at prom.
Mandatory to the fun: Getting to and from prom safely.
We hope for both of the above. Here are some tips/suggestions from a car accident lawyer:
Always Pay Attention
If your teen is the driver for the night, please make sure that they know that he/she understands how vitally important it is to be a safe, responsible driver. A reminder of the simple rules of "defensive driving" is a good measure. With lots of kids on the road, and potentially a load of teens in the car, mistakes and distractions can happen more easily. A short talk, with simple reminders before that night about potential hazards, can never be a bad thing.
Know your speed
The faster a person goes in a vehicle, the less control they have over it. Speed limits are posted for a reason. Be sure to follow them at all times.
The driver is always responsible
If your child is the driver for the night, please have them be aware to make sure any and all occupants are in the vehicle with them before they start to drive. Make sure all occupants have their seatbelts on and their headrests adjusted accordingly. Again, make sure everyone in the car has their SEATBELTS ON.
No child’s play
A vehicle can potentially be a weapon if it not used for what it is meant for. A vehicle is meant to get you from one place to the other. It is not used as a way to impress friends. Period.
No distracted driving
Hundreds of auto accidents occur every year due to drivers being distracted. What is the number one reason for drivers being distracted? A cell-phone. Don’t use it while driving, and always keep your eyes on the road while driving.
Be ready to share the road
You are not the only one on the road, always pay attention to other drivers, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists. You do have to share the road, so please be courteous to others.
NO DRINKING AND DRIVING
Alcohol, drugs, and driving NEVER mix. No matter the cause, the outcome is never good. To drive safely, you must be SOBER and ALERT. This can be a real challenge on prom night. Older teens, out on the town, with the freedom of a vehicle and a goal of having a great time---Inhibitions can be lessened, much more so by alcohol.
Make your prom night memorable, but memorable for the RIGHT reasons (and not because something tragic occurs).
