Traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers. In 2013, over 2,600 teen drivers died, and approximately 130,000 were injured in motor vehicle accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). So many of these accidents are preventable, too.
To raise awareness about the key components of safety for teen drivers, the NHTSA has designated the third week in October “National Teen Driver Safety Week.” The NHTSA urges parents to use this time to talk with their teens about safe driving techniques and avoiding common dangers, and to make a joint pledge with their teen to stick to the rules of the road.
"5 to Drive" – Set the Rules Before They Hit the Road
1. No drinking and driving.
2. Buckle up. Every trip. Every time.
3. Put it down. One text or call could wreck it all.
4. Stop speeding before it stops you.
5. No more than one passenger at any time.
The agency recommends starting the conversation with your teen during Teen Driver Safety Week but continuing the conversation often. “Even if it seems like they’re tuning you out, keep telling them. They’re listening, and these powerful messages will get through,” the NHTSA encourages.
As a parent, you can get creative with how to relay the message. Put sticky notes in the car or use social media to get the message across. You can also print the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety’s Teen Driver/Parent Agreement and have both you and your child initial each promise. The agreement is an excellent rundown of all of the driving rules and reminders that teens need to know.
Free Resources You Can Use with Your Teen Driver
As part of the campaign, the NHTSA has made dozens of helpful resources available for parents. On its National Teen Drivers Safety Week page, you’ll find links to downloadable resources such as the following.
• Banner ads
• Fact sheets
• Flyers
• Social media tools
• Videos
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also has several useful resources for parents, including parent-teen driving agreements, fact sheets, and a Parents' Guide to Safe Teen Driving Guide.
Atlanta car accident lawyer Jason R. Schultz also offers a variety of resources for families after automobile crashes, like this informative piece on comparative negligence in Georgia. Contact the office today to discuss a car wreck claim: (404) 474-0804.