What are the Dangers for Teen Drivers?
What are Some Dangers for Teen Drivers?
Did you know that motor vehicle/car crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States?
According to a statistical study conducted by the CDC (Center for Disease Control), over 2,000 teenagers (ages 16-19) in the United States were killed and approximately 200,000 were treated in the ER for injuries suffered in crashes in 2014.
As a parent of three children, I find these statistics to be quite alarming.
Overall, Illinois has done its job to reduce these numbers by banning hand-held mobile devices while driving, as well as instituting a GDL (Graduated Driver Licensing) system that gives teenagers more supervised driving time before they are fully-licensed drivers.
But, even with these extra steps in place, motor vehicle accidents still remain the top cause of teenager deaths in Illinois, and unfortunately “tough” laws alone won’t prevent these deaths.
So, the IIA (Illinois Insurance Association) created the “5 to Drive” campaign, which offers tips for talking with your teens about safe driving habits. The greatest dangers that face teenagers when driving are:
1) Alcohol consumption and driving.
2) Distracted driving. Teach them not to use cell phones, put on makeup, eat a burger, etc…while driving.
3) Extra passengers in the car while driving.
4) Speeding.
5) Always use your seat belt, even if going a short distance.
6) Driving drowsy. Always be awake and alert.
The idea behind the “5 to Drive” campaign is that parents can foster safe driving habits in their teens through real discussions of what is and is not OK when driving.
It is going to take a collaborative effort to save the lives of teen drivers. The Illinois Insurance Association will continue to discuss safe teen driving habits not only during this “Teen Driver Safety Week”, but all year long.
If you have any further questions on this topic, or about insurance your teen driver, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at Langlois Insurance Agency at #815-485-6676.
Safe driving teens!
Matt Langlois
