Driving Tips for Teens: What You Need to Know
Research shows that teen drivers are more vulnerable on the roads. Unfortunately, a leading cause of death for teenagers across the United States is motor vehicle crashes. In 2021, there were 2,608 people killed in car crashes involving a teen driver (15-18 years old). Teenagers embarking on their journey as new drivers need to be equipped with essential driving safety tips.
10 Teen Safe Driving Tips
Driving safely is not just a responsibility but a necessity, especially for relatively inexperienced drivers. Here are 10 Teen Driver Safety tips to keep in mind:
1. Get to Know Your Vehicle
Understanding the ins and outs of the vehicle you are driving is fundamental. Review the owner’s manual and familiarize yourself with the location of essential controls, such as headlights, turn signals, and windshield wipers. Regularly check your car’s tire pressure, oil levels, and brakes to ensure they are in good working condition. Teens should practice driving regularly and monitor their progress to gain confidence in their driving skills.
2. Follow the Traffic Laws
Ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the local traffic regulations. Obeying traffic signs and signals is not just a legal requirement but a crucial element in preventing auto accidents.
3. Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions
Concentration is key while driving. Avoid distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, eating or drinking, or using the radio. Keep your focus on the road and be aware of your surroundings. Even a momentary lapse in concentration can lead to a dangerous situation.
4. Don’t Text and Drive
Texting and driving is one of the leading causes of accidents among teens. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), people who text while driving are 23 times more likely to get into a crash.
About 14% of fatal crashes involve at least one driver who was texting while driving. The urge to check your phone might be strong, but it’s important to resist. A text or a call can wait; your safety and the safety of others on the road should always come first.
5. Follow the Speed Limit
Excessive speed reduces your ability to react to unexpected situations. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), passenger vehicle teen drivers accounted for 43% of speeding-related fatalities from 2015 to 2019.
Always drive within the posted speed limits. Drive slower in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic such as at intersections, school zones, and residential neighborhoods. If you don’t follow speed limits, you can be fined and charged with reckless driving.
Those who receive a speeding ticket may receive points on their license which can stay on your record anywhere from 3 to 7 years. According to Forbes Advisor’s analysis of auto insurance costs, California drivers with a speeding ticket pay 40% more per year than drivers who have a clean record.
6. Always Buckle Up
Wearing seat belts is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your passengers while driving. Using a seat belt reduces the risk of fatal injury by 45% in an auto accident. Ensure that everyone in the vehicle is wearing their seat belt before you start driving. It’s a habit that can save lives.
7. Limit the Number of Passengers
Having friends in the car can be fun, but it can also be distracting, especially for teen drivers. Limit the number of passengers, especially during the initial stages of your driving experience. The more people in the car, the higher the likelihood of distractions.
8. Stay Sober Behind the Wheel
Each day, 37 people die in impaired driving-related crashes across the US. Alcohol and drugs impair your judgment and reaction time, making driving extremely dangerous. Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substances that can compromise your ability to drive safely. Always designate a sober driver or use public transportation if you plan to consume alcohol.
9. Limit Nighttime Driving
Nighttime driving presents additional challenges due to reduced visibility. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), 50% of traffic fatalities occur during nighttime. If you’re a new driver, it’s advisable to limit driving during the night. If you have to drive in the dark, ensure that your headlights are functioning properly and be extra cautious about your speed, surroundings, and potential road hazards. Ensure you don’t drive fatigued. The effects of drowsy driving can be similar to driving under the influence and are just as dangerous.
Leave Enough Space Between Vehicles
Maintaining a safe following distance is vital. It gives you ample time to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops or slows down. The three-second rule is a good guideline: keep a distance that allows you to count three seconds between when the car in front of you passes a fixed object and when you pass the same object.
The Benefits of Driver’s Education Programs
Enrolling in a reputable driver’s education program can provide invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience. These programs often cover essential topics such as defensive driving techniques, understanding road signs, and proper vehicle maintenance. Additionally, driver’s education courses usually include practical driving lessons with experienced instructors, allowing teens to learn in a controlled and supervised environment.
We Represent Car Accident Victims
Teen driver safety is a shared responsibility. Safe driving habits not only protect you but also contribute to the overall safety of everyone on the road. Unfortunately, accidents can happen despite taking necessary precautions. If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident, it’s crucial to consult an experienced car accident lawyer.
At Alpha Accident Lawyers, our team is dedicated to helping car accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. Our personal injury law firm maintains a 99% success rate and has obtained millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. Call us today to schedule a no-risk, free consultation.
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