Teen drivers and safety: Tips for parents

July 8, 9:30 AMLA Parenting ExaminerRebecca Lacko

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Follow these practical tips for teen safety.

With summer revving its engine, it’s a great time of year for teens; Classes are in the rear-view, and summer jobs are on the horizon.
 
Between driving to work, running errands, and joy-riding with BFFs, teens comprise a sizable population of drivers in the summer months. Sadly, in the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows an annual spike in traffic accidents, injuries and deaths among young people.
 
As teens start cruising the roads this summer, it is important for parents to remind them how to stay safe behind the wheel. Below are a few quick tips for parents of teen drivers from the non-profit organization, Think Before You Drive.   

• Create a driving contract for your teen, and be prepared to stick to it. A driving contract is a great way to let teens know that driving is both a privilege and a serious responsibility. It also establishes clear expectations about driving for your teen:
  • Always wear a seat belt
  • Never get into a vehicle with someone who’s been drinking
  • Pull over and stop to use a cell phone for talking and texting, etc.  
• Choose an ICE contact. All drivers should designate an emergency contact in the address book of their cell phones under the name "ICE" — In Case of Emergency. Emergency workers, such as paramedics, police, or fire fighters, typically check for an ICE contact in cell phones.
• Set a good example. When parents run red and yellow lights, speed down the highway at 75 miles per hour, weave in and out of traffic, ride the bumper of the car in front of them and exhibit signs of road rage, they are telling teens that rules don't count — and this can be fatal. Be a role model for your teen.