Getting a driver’s license is a thrill for any teen, but it’s a reward that comes with a lot of responsibility. It’s hard to think about, but car crashes are the No. 1 killer of American teens – as many as 5,000 teenagers lose their lives in auto accidents every year. Considering that statistic, it’s clear why teen driver safety is of the utmost importance.
In an effort to make teens safer behind the wheel, Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws have been enacted in some states. These laws are designed to help teens transition into driving over time, as they gain behind-the-wheel experience and driving skills, gradually working their way toward full driving privileges.
As school comes back into session, keep in mind these 10 car safety tips for teens:
1. Safe drivers need a good night’s sleep. Being a sleepy driver equates to being an impaired driver. Start homework early – even before dinner – so that you have plenty of time to catch some “z’s”.
2. Leave early. When you’re in a rush, your driving can suffer. Get up early enough so that you’ll have plenty of time to get ready and get to school without rushing.
3. Don’t invite all your friends to ride with you. More people in the car make for more distraction. With two friends in the car, adding one more can double the risk of a crash.
4. Know your traffic laws – and obey them. It might seem basic, but don’t let yourself slip. Traffic laws are made to keep you – and other drivers – safe.
5. Wait your turn. Don’t pass other cars on sections of road with double solid lines, and don’t try to go around someone by driving on the shoulder.
6. Don’t push your luck. If you’re coming to a railroad crossing and the lights are flashing, don’t try to “beat” the train. The same goes for trying to “beat” other cars, whether they’re on a regular road or coming off an entrance ramp.
7. It’s not time to make phone calls. Even though you can look ahead while you make a call, it’s not safe. Phone conversations are a big distraction that can be dangerous.
8. Nix the texts. Texting takes your eyes off the road for an average of five seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field – blind. If that doesn’t say enough, consider that texting while driving makes you 23 times more likely to get in a crash.
9. Pedestrians have the right of way. Safe driving should protect others, as well as you.
10. Be sure that you’re insured. Not only is being insured helpful if you get into an accident, it’s the law. You should talk to your parents about the details of their insurance coverage so that you know what’s covered in teen car insurance.
