Motor–vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for U.S. teens from 15 to 18 years old. National Teen Driver Safety Week, which starts on October 16 and runs through the 22nd, is the perfect time to review safe driving habits with family members, including teen drivers.
So, how can you help your family members or other teen drivers make smart decisions when driving?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has compiled a list of driver safety tips in its “Fact Sheet/Talking Points,” which is geared towards teens. The fact sheet lays out some notable facts about teen driver fatalities, including that motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for teens in the United States. Nearly 2,300 people were killed in crashes involving a teen passenger vehicle driver, defined as drivers aged 15-18 years old.
Some of the” biggest risks” outlined in the fact sheet, which should be widely circulated given the important information it contains, include:
Given these statistics, the fact sheet cautions teen drivers to remember the rules of the road. In particular, teen drivers are warned to avoid driving impaired, buckle up, keep eyes on the road, follow the posted speed limit, and limit passengers.
According to the CDC and AAA, parent-teen driving agreements – voluntary agreements that define acceptable driving behavior – may be a good way to encourage safe driving behavior on the roads.
For example, the sample “parent-teen agreement” developed by the CDC contains promises that the teen driver will:
If a young driver understands the reasons underlying the rule, and the consequences for breaking them, that may help young drivers understand the need to follow the rules, reinforcing safe driving habits.
AAA has also suggested use of a “Family-to-Family” agreement, which can allow parents to work together to ensure teens gain driving experience in a safe environment.
Sometimes, even when all precautions are taken, 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. Call William Mattar, P.C., today. We’re here to help. Call us, at (844) 444-4444.