With teens back in school, there is an influx of beginning drivers on the road commuting to school, after-school jobs, sports, and other social events. The statistic revolving around teen driving accidents is bleak. It is the leading cause of death among teens. Therefore, it is important teens are prepped with the right tips and information to encourage safe driving.
Safety Tips
In honor of National Teen Safe Driving Week, we want to share with you a few tips from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The NHTSA has established six rules to know before you go.
- No Cell Phones while driving. Using a cell phone while driving is against the law in Wisconsin for any driver with a probationary license or instruction permit, except to report an emergency. This includes the use of hands-free operation.
- No Speeding. Speeding is one of the top three mistakes teens make when learning to drive.
- No Drowsy Driving. The typical teen does not get enough sleep every night, making them more at risk when driving.
- Always Buckle Up. Not only is it the law, but most fatalities involving teen deaths are also caused by not buckling up.
- No Passengers. Passengers under 21 in the car are one of the biggest distractions for teen drivers.
- No Alcohol. There is a zero-tolerance law in Wisconsin for drivers under 21 years old.
Parents Are the Greatest Influencers
Parents are the number one example for teens as they learn to drive. If teens see that their parents follow traffic laws, they too will likely follow your lead.
A study by the NHTSA found that 41% of teens found their parents exhibit unsafe behaviors while driving (i.e. texting and driving) even after their kids have asked them to stop. In addition, 28% of teens claim their parents justify their unsafe behaviors.
Parents should do their best to show their kids how to manage speed, reduce distractions, and how to scan the road and pay attention to their surroundings. Along with setting the standard through their behavior, parents should have conversations about driving early and often and set the ground rules before their teen starts driving on their own.
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With offices in River Falls, Eau Claire, and La Crosse, the personal injury attorneys of Bye, Goff & Rodhe serve people throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota. Including people located in, Marshfield, Superior/Duluth, Tomah, Rice Lake, Polk County, Burnett County, Black River Falls, and surrounding areas.