The Problem – Too Many Teens Are Dying
Motor vehicle crashes are the number one killer of 14 – 18-year-olds in the United States. Almost 50% of teen drivers involved in crashes died.
As parents, we are the biggest influence on our teen’s safety behind the wheel. We need to do more to take time to talk with our kids about the dangers of driving. National Teen Driver Safety Week is the third week in October 19-25, 2014. The Department of Transportation and NHTSA are asking parents to focus on the five to drive important rules that teen drivers need to follow to stay safe behind the wheel:
1. No Drinking and Driving.
Set a good example by not driving after drinking. Remind your teen that drinking before the age of 21 is illegal, and alcohol and driving should never mix.
2. Buckle Up. Every Trip. Every Time. Front Seat and Back.
Lead by example. If you wear your seat belt every time, your teen is more likely to follow suit. Remind your teen that it’s important to buckle up on every trip, no matter how far.
3. Put It Down. One Text or Call Could Wreck It All.
Remind your teen about the dangers of texting or dialing while driving, and that the phone is off-limits when they are on the road. It’s equally important to model safe driving habits for your teen—you shouldn’t text and drive either.
4. Stop Speeding Before It Stops You.
Drive the speed limit and require your teen to do the same. Explain that every time your speed doubles, your stopping distance quadruples.
5. No More Than One Passenger at Any Time.
Don’t allow your teen to drive with more than one passenger at a time. Check your State’s GDL law, though; it may prohibit any passengers.
York Law Firm is comprised of Sacramento based lawyers that handle motor vehicle, trucking accident and wrongful death cases. If you or your loved one has been the victim of a motor vehicle crash or trucking accident case, please call our office so that we can investigate your case at 916-643-2200 or contact us online. We are dedicated to representing families and victims of motor vehicle, trucking and motorcycle collision cases.