October 20th-26th is National Teen Driver Safety Week. Given the extensive number of teen car crashes in October, this encourages parents, young drivers, lawmakers and educators to work together to change risky driving behaviors and help save lives.
Having a dedicated week provides a unique opportunity to focus attention on this national problem. The week serves as a time to shine a spotlight on teen driver safety and ramp up conversations about teen driver safety.
Cell Phones
Talking on a cell phone while driving slows down the reaction time of even the most experienced driver – making it the same as that of a 70-year-old. Can you imagine the impact it will have on your teenager? And texting while driving is a serious risk for teen drivers as well, forcing them to take their eyes and at least one hand off the steering wheel.
Distracted drivers can kill or be killed
Driving distractions like talking on a cell phone or texting while driving are an even greater threat for teens than for others. It is well documented that 15 to 17-year olds have the highest percentage of distracted drivers.
Talk to your teen drivers about the risks of talking, texting, and other distractions, and set clear expectations about driving habits.
