Fact: teen drivers account for more auto accidents than any other age group.
This fact can be hard for parents to swallow, especially when the first time they witness their teen backing out of the driveway alone for the first time. One reason is due to inexperience behind the wheel. While there is no substitute for driving experience and the wisdom gained with age and time spent behind the wheel, teens can practice safe driving techniques in order to increase the on-road safety for themselves, their passengers, and others on the road. For the top five teen driver safety tips, continue reading.
- No Cell Phones: Not being allowed to use a cell phone may sound like torture to a teen, but avoiding cell phone use while driving is an important way to stay safe. Not only is using a cell phone dangerous when behind the wheel, it is also agains the law in many states. Using a cell phone while diving is the equivalent of driving drunk – this includes hands-free driving, so ditch the Bluetooth when behind the wheel too!
- Don't Text: Just as talking on a cell phone is dangerous, so is texting – more so because it takes your eyes completely away from from the road. It may seem like texting only takes a single second of time, but research shows texting causes a loss of focus on the road for 4.5 seconds. These “quick” 4.5 seconds can cause you to miss key developments occurring on the road around you. Also avoid texting while stopped (at a red light, stop sign, in a traffic jam, etc.). Both scenarios are dangerous, which is why texting (whether in motion or sitting still) is banned in many states.
Obey the Speed Limit: A major contributor to fatal teen accidents is speeding. This is especially true when driving on roads with a lot of traffic or roads that you are not familiar with. Just because you may see others speeding around you, don't let this pressure you into speeding just to keep up with the flow of traffic. Driving at a safe speed will help ensure you remain safe, as well as keep you from getting a speeding ticket. Every ticket you get causes a big price increase in your auto insurance, which is something your parents will not finding pleasing.
- Minimize Distractions: We've already completely banned cell phone use while driving due to its distracting quality. Eating, drinking, changing radio stations, and even playing music loudly are also all driving distractions. While we won't absolutely ban distractions like these, it is very important to minimize them as much as possible. These types of distractions cause your mind and vision to wander, which can prove dangerous behind the wheel.
- Turn On Headlights: Though many cars today feature automatic headlights, many do not, which means headlight safety is very important. Headlights increase your visibility on the road; they also help other drivers see you. This is even true when you feel it is light outside. For example, early morning and early evening. Headlights are crucial at these times, otherwise you may face serious or fatal consequences.
For more information on safety tips for teen drivers and other car-related topics, visit our dealership in Emmaus, PA.