A Simple Guide to Preventing Distracted Driving in Teenagers

Your teen is due for a driving license, all set to hit the road. But you are worried about a statistic that teenagers are 50% more likely to be in an accident than adults. As a new driver, it’s so easy to lose focus while driving for teenagers, and the result could be fatal. It becomes imperative to do this piece on preventing distracted driving by teenagers. 

As enjoyable as the driving experience can be for teenagers, it’s death-defying. Distracted driving is a serious concern with new drivers “multitask” by receiving telephone calls, replying to texts, viewing posts on social media, checking notifications, taking snacks behind the wheels. 

Though distracted driving is an issue for all, teens are very likely to be distracted behind the wheels the most, causing a greater possibility for an accident; in fact, loss of life. Teenagers don’t have the experience to deal with distractions; that’s why they suffer car accidents. Generally, nine people die daily in a motor crash because of distracted driving. Teenagers need to be enlightened beyond the traffic laws.  

The good news is that you can prevent distracted driving in teenagers with the proper guidance. Educate your teens with the suggestions provided in this piece to help them avoid distracted driving.

What is Distracted Driving 

Driving while performing another task that makes you lose focus is distracted driving. 

Some of these tasks can be replying to a message, making phone calls, searching your favorite radio station, adjusting side mirrors, AC controls, map-reading, using other controls, or eating fast food. You can be lost in thoughts, twisting your head to talk to another passenger or finding your smartphone. 

Also, getting your hands off the wheels or eyes away from the road for one second may distract you and likely cause a ghastly accident. 

Tips on Preventing Distracted Driving 

1. Put law in force  

Instruct your teen on do’s and don’ts behind the wheel. Tell your teen the following;

• Don’t apply cosmetics on your face when driving.
• Abstain from reading the GPS while driving.
• Your teen shouldn’t drive with passengers yet.
• If they feel sleepy when it’s dark, don’t drive.
• Put the two hands on the steering wheel while driving. 
• Driving requires maximum concentration.
• Look around for deathtraps nearby. 
• Switch on the radio and tune in to your favorite station before driving, also set other controls.
• Always wear your seat belt.

2. Leave a good example

Before your teen starts driving themself, he must have spent at least 16 years accompanying you in the car. You’d help by leaving a good example for him to follow. Pay no attention to distractions. 

3. Introduce your teen to the local driving law

Every country has a Certified Driver License handbook. Introduce your teen to these rules to be familiar with the limitations stated on their license. For instance, some locations rule against night driving for teens. 

4. Discuss the dangers of multitasking driving with the telephone: 

Teens always check notifications on phones every second. Establish a phone position and ascertain they abide by this. Or possibly, have them put the telephone where it’s inaccessible. And, if a call is urgent, tell them to stop & park carefully.

Discuss with your teen the etiquette and onuses needed when driving. Mention experiences & information on distracted driving.

5. Make a reliable driving illustration for the family.

Please discuss the peril of illegal drugs with your teen: You should tell him the detriments to driving when intoxicated.

Make time out to educate your teen on the basics of driving. Be patient to join your teen in the car. You can notice areas where your teen needs more assistance and help him out to drive safely. 

Key Takeaways 

Don’t ever underrate dangers resulting from distracted driving; find time to talk about the guide to help teens avoid distracted driving.

Notwithstanding if your teen is already driving, take time to enlighten on safe driving practices. If you’d like to talk about auto insurance for your entire family, feel free to talk to us at Tillman Insurance Advisors