Getting a driver’s license is a huge milestone for teens, but it comes with great responsibility. Let’s look at some statistics around teen drivers and teen driving safety advice for your young driver.
Our Analysis
According to the Insurance Information Institute, consider these teen driving statistics:
- Auto accidents are the number one killer of teenagers.
- Drivers under 20 had 13% of all accidents, but are only 5% of all drivers.
- 5000 youth die each year from auto accidents.
- Alcohol is responsible for almost 50% of teen vehicle deaths.
- 25% of teen accidents involve speeding.
- Half of all fatalities happen between 6:00 p.m. Friday and 3:00 a.m. Sunday.
Our Actionable Advice
In light of the alarming statistics above, check out these tips from Travelers Insurance to help teens drive safely:
General Tips:
- Accompany your teen driver for a period of time. The CDC recommends at least 30-50 hours of supervised driving over at least 6 months.
- Make sure teens are well rested. Keep them on a regular sleep schedule.
- Set a strict curfew.
- Monitor weather conditions and limit driving in unsafe weather.
- Watch the gas gauge to ensure they are fueled up and make sure they know how to refuel.
- Have them pitch in on some of the costs.
- Take a drive with your teen periodically to assess their driving skills.
- Seat belts are nonnegotiable.
- Encourage them to leave early to help reduce speeding.
Distracted Driving Tips and Rules of the Road:
- Use the “do not disturb” setting and place the phone in the glove compartment away from the new driver.
- Do not text, scroll, call, or post while driving, including at traffic lights.
- Set the GPS and adjust mirrors before starting to drive.
- Do not eat or drink while driving.
- Know and follow the speed limit and obey all traffic laws.
- Leave enough space between vehicles.
- Limit the number of passengers.
- Be aware of your surroundings, always keep your eyes on the road, and hands on the wheel.
- Drive only when permitted to use the car and do not let anyone else drive the car.
Tips for Parents of Teen Drivers:
- Pick a safe car for your teen to drive.
- Understand your state’s teenage driving laws, including what’s required, when and how to get a driver’s license and insurance.
- Have your teen take a certified driver’s education course.
- Enroll your teen in additional safe driver programs.
- Frequently talk to your teen about the dangers of alcohol, drugs, lack of sleep, and distractions.
- Be a good role model.
- Have your teen sign a Safe Driving Pledge or Parent-Teen Driving Agreement and review it periodically. Here is one example to consider from Thrive.
The Big Takeaway
Kristi, our Home and Auto Insurance expert, is in your corner. If you have questions about your Car Insurance or would like us to review your policy or provide a quote, please contact Kristi at 678-906-2008 ext. 1209 or by email.