National Teen Driver Safety Week

National Teen Driver Safety Week

When it comes to teens, motor vehicles are as dangerous as deadly weapons. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for 14-18 year olds in the United States. Unfortunately, however, far too many parents fail to take the time to talk with their teens about the many dangers of driving. October 20-26 is National Teen Driver Safety Week. In honor of this important week, we encourage you to teach your teens about safe driving.

5 Dangers Facing Teen Drivers When They Get Behind the Wheel

Most teens view driving a car or truck as a path to freedom. Finally, they are able to go where they want to go without having to rely on others for rides. Unfortunately, this luxury comes with significant dangers. The biggest risks facing teen drivers when they get behind the wheel include the following:

• Driving under the influence of drug or alcohol
• Lack of seat belt use
• Distracted Driving, including using their cell phone while driving
• Speeding
• Driving with extra passengers

National Teen Driver Safety Week falls during a month that presents its own unique risks. As we all know, October means Halloween, a fun and exciting holiday enjoyed by all. Unfortunately, however, this holiday can also add to the danger when it comes to teens and car accidents. Help your teen avoid a crash by sharing the following important tips:

• Stay Extra Alert

On Halloween, parents and kids are out in abundance, walking on darkened roads as they trick-or-treat. They may be difficult to see. It is important to use added vigilance to avoid an accident.

• Slow Your Speed

With more people out and more vehicles on the road, it is important to give yourself enough time to react in the event the unexpected occurs.

• Don’t Drive Distracted

Driving distracted makes it more difficult to prevent an accident. It is also more important than ever to avoid using a cell phone, navigational system, or the radio while operating the car since it may lead to distracted driving.

• Be Able To See Clearly

If your Halloween costume impairs your vision, take it off until you arrive at your destination.

• Designate a Driver or Avoid Drinking

Driving while under the influence of alcohol is never a good idea, but this is especially true on Halloween, when there are an increased number of pedestrians and cars on the roadways.

Enjoy the beautiful fall this October, but help keep your teen safe by communicating about the importance of safe driving. We encourage you to share a link to this article on Facebook and Twitter today! If your teen is involved in a car accident, contact Kaufman Law for a FREE case evaluation.