As summer vacation gets underway, teenagers will be hitting the road for some summer fun. Many transportation organizations, such as AAA and We Save Lives, have deemed this time the “100 deadliest days of summer.”
For teenage drivers, crashes increase during the summer months more than any other time of the year. A study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety concluded that 60 percent of teen driving accidents are caused by distracted driving. Texting and talking on the phone can take away a teen’s focus as they drive. Other dangerous distractions include eating, drinking beverages, applying makeup and finding the right music station.
How You Can Keep Your Teen Drivers Safe
Here are some essential tips for helping your teenager stay safe while driving this summer:
- Drivers’ Ed. These programs teach teens how to drive properly as well as how to be safe and cautious drivers. Make sure your teen takes these programs seriously. Drivers’ education programs do more than prepare your teen to pass their written and practical driving tests. These programs often work through a graduated drivers’ licensing system that will ensure you child learns the skills they need to stay safe.
- Talk to your teen. Having an open line of communication with your teenager about safe driving is essential to making sure they stay safe on the road. Talk to them about drunk, distracted and drowsy driving. Share stories and statistics about these topics so they can better understand driving safety.
- Set a good example. When driving, make sure you set a good example for your teen drivers. You can do so by making sure to buckle your seatbelt, adhering to all posted traffic regulations, and resisting distractions while you are in the driver’s seat.
Questions About a Car Accident?
If your teenager still gets into an accident this summer, don’t panic. Contact an attorney to find out the best way to handle the situation. The experienced Coral Gables car accident lawyers at Colson Hicks Eidson have successfully fought for the rights of Florida injury victims and their families for decades. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.