Teenagers are not known for their safe driving skills. Their risky behaviors and lack of driving experience can have fatal consequences. Teens aged 15 to 20 make up less than 7% of the total driving population but are involved in 14% of all deadly crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Here are some tips to reduce the risk that your teenager will be involved in an auto accident.
Require Seat Belt Use
Require your teen to wear a seat belt at all times. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that wearing a seat belt is the most effective way to prevent death and severe injury in the event of a crash. Over half of all people that are killed in car crashes were not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.
Institute a Driving Curfew
Almost one-third of teen auto deaths happen between the hours of 9 PM and 3 AM. Consider establishing a driving curfew. Once your teenager is more experienced at night driving, you can extend that curfew.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents for teenagers. Phone use or having other teenagers in the car are distractions that take a teen driver’s attention away from the road.
Make sure your teen knows that no call or text is more important than their life. Get your child to agree not to call or text while driving and institute penalties if they break the rules. Brand new drivers shouldn’t have any other passengers in the car. Once they have more experience, you might consider allowing a limited number of other passengers when your teen is driving.
Driving School
Enroll your teen in a driver’s education class. A driving school will teach your critical teenager skills like defensive driving, car accident prevention and how to drive in inclement weather. As an added benefit, your insurance company may lower your premium if your teen completes the course successfully.
Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers
Unfortunately, accidents happen to even the safest drivers. If you or a loved one has been in an accident and you would like to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney, contact us today for a Free Consultation. At David R. Price, Jr. P.A., we have experienced Car Accident Lawyers ready to review your case.