The risk of road accidents is always present, even for experienced drivers. These dangers can be worse for beginners, such as teenagers who just got their licenses.
Traffic accidents involving teens are common. Here are seven leading causes of car crashes among teenage drivers:
- Lack of experience
- Lack of light and other environmental factors
- Failure to wear seat belts
- Driving while sleepy or distracted
- Careless driving habits
- Impairment or intoxication
- Driving without a more experienced driver in the vehicle
How can I help?
When your child, sibling, cousin, niece or nephew is learning to drive, your advice and guidance can protect them. As a responsible adult, you can help by:
- Joining the ride as a passenger when they drive. They can get much-needed practice under your guidance.
- Giving pointers before, during and after the drive.
- Taking time to supervise their driving in various lighting and weather conditions.
- Setting a curfew for driving at night.
- Limiting the number of friends who can ride as passengers.
- Strictly enforcing seatbelt rules.
- Openly talking about vehicle safety habits. You can also set an example by practicing them.
Teens learn by observing and practicing. These steps keep them safe while brushing up on their road safety practices. In addition, you can choose a car with reliable safety features.
Experience is necessary
Despite having a license, teenagers need help to develop discipline, awareness and skills that can only come with experience. As they drive, your presence in the vehicle can help maintain calm during stressful situations.