Driver Safety Tips for Teenagers

Receiving a driver’s license is an exciting milestone. Driving is a privilege that comes with a lot of responsibility. Unfortunately, motor vehicle accidents kill thousands of teenagers every single year and are sometimes caused by dangerous driving from the teen(s) involved. Driving can be a joyful and liberating experience when the driver is prepared for the road ahead and appreciates the importance of driving safely. All drivers, no matter their age, must comply with the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law. Of course, nothing here is meant to substitute what you may have learned while reading the New York Driver’s Manual, attending an approved defensive driving course, or preparing for a road test.

Safe Teen Drivers Know Their Vehicle

Before you drive, it is important to know the vehicle. It is a good idea to read the owner’s manual. Can you answer questions like:

What do the lights on the dashboard and instrument panel mean?
Where is your gas tank?
Where is your emergency brake?
How do you turn on your windshield wipers?
Is there a spare tire? Do you have a jack? Do you know how to change a tire, or who to call if you can’t do it yourself?
How do you clean the windows?
How do you turn on your high beams and when is it not appropriate to do so?

Safe Teen Drivers May Create a Driving Routine

A few simple steps can help increase your safety as you drive. While obviously not a complete, exhaustive list of things to look out for, you may consider:

Adjusting the rear view and side mirrors to improve visibility and remove as many blind spots as you can.
Buckling your seatbelt - and make sure all passengers are buckled up and secured as well.
Follow the Vehicle and Traffic Law and apply the things you learned while preparing for your road test.

Safe Teen Drivers Limit Distractions

Many accidents are caused by distracted driving. These accidents are preventable, but they can have serious, life-changing consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: “Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system — anything that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving.” (https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving) As observed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, anything that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving can increase the risk of an accident. Some drivers do the following things to reduce the chances of becoming distracted behind the wheel:

Put your phone down and set it to “Do Not Disturb” when on the road (most phones have a setting that automatically turns off notifications when it senses that you’re driving).
If you must make a call or a text, pull over when you can do so safely. It is against the law in New York to use a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.
Choose a station or a playlist before putting the car in drive and leave it there without blasting the volume.
Limit passengers.
Don’t drive when tired.
Most importantly, keep your eyes and full attention on the road.

Safe Teen Drivers Maintain Distance and Monitor Speed

We live in a world that sometimes seems to always be in a rush. Speeding or tailgating (driving too close to the vehicle in front of you) can increase the risk of an accident because it reduces reaction time. It is also unlawful. All drivers should follow the Vehicle and Traffic Law and drive at a safe distance from other motorists.

In Case of a Teen Driving Accident—Call William Mattar P.C.

Sometimes, even when you take all the right precautions, accidents happen. If you are looking for a reliable and experienced auto injury attorney, contact William Mattar, P.C. You will want an attorney with the knowledge and experience to advocate for injured victims and guide them through the process. Contact William Mattar P.C. today. We’re here to help. (844) 444 - 4444.