According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more teens dies from motor vehicle crashes than from any other cause. Protect your teens with five safe driving tips.
1. Turn off the Phone
Talking or texting on a cellphone, even one that’s hands-free, produces the same results as driving while drunk. Plus, many states have laws against drivers talking on cellphones. To be safe, teens should turn off their phones and stay focused on the road when they get behind the wheel.
2. Follow the Speed Limit
Speed contributes to up to 40 percent of fatal teen accidents. Instead of driving fast to keep up with traffic or to show off, teen drivers stay safe when they follow the speed limit. This tip applies especially when teens drive on unfamiliar roads, in the midst of heavy traffic or during inclement weather, but it’s also important every day.
3. Reduce Distractions
Loud music, cold sodas and engaging conversation have their place at a party but not in the car. Teen drivers must focus on the task at hand and reduce distractions that may prevent them from seeing obstacles, obeying posted signs or maintaining control of the vehicle.
4. Practice Defensive Driving
Defensive driving allows teens to maintain safe following distances, obey signs and plan an escape route. Most drivers develop this mindset over time, but smart teens practice these skills from the time they first earn their driving license.
5. Drive a Safe Car
Employing safe driving techniques is an important factor when keeping teen drivers safe on the road, but the vehicle can play a role too. Vehicles with anti-lock brakes, air bags, backup assist and electronic stability control can protect teens.
Keeping teen drivers safe is possible with these five tips. Likewise, be sure to purchase adequate auto insurance on each vehicle. Call your agent today to update your policies and for additional safe teen driving tips.
Sources: Five Safe Driving Tips for New Teen Drivers
