Having a teenager who drives can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for the whole family. While it’s natural to want to keep them safe, driving comes with risks—for them and others on the road. In the U.S., the CDC reports that in 2019, around 2,400 teens aged 13 to 19 lost their lives in car accidents, and about 258,000 were injured.
Teens between the ages of 16 and 19 face the highest risk of car accidents compared to other age groups. This is largely due to inexperience and a tendency to engage in risky behaviors like not wearing seatbelts or driving under the influence.
Car accidents can lead to various injuries for teens, ranging from broken bones and whiplash to traumatic brain injuries or even hard-to-detect internal injuries like internal bleeding. If you’re looking for ways to protect your teen on the road, here are some tips to consider:
1. **Talk to Your Teen About Driving Safety**
Start by having an open conversation about key safety topics such as speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, and wearing seatbelts. Set clear rules and expectations, such as avoiding night driving or limiting passengers, and outline consequences for breaking these rules.
It’s also important for your teen to understand the financial impact of driving. Car insurance rates for teens are significantly higher due to their higher accident rates. On average, a six-month premium for drivers aged 16 to 19 is $2,286, compared to $943 for drivers aged 20 to 29. Accidents will only further increase these costs.
2. **Be a Positive Role Model**
Your actions behind the wheel matter. Avoid speeding, weaving through traffic, texting while driving, or displaying road rage. Your teen is observing your behavior and could pick up bad habits from what they see. Stay calm and follow the rules of the road to set a good example.
3. **Encourage a Defensive Driving Course**
Beyond standard driver’s education, encourage your teen to take a defensive driving course. These classes teach practical skills to help them avoid accidents and handle challenging road situations. The extra practice and knowledge can make a big difference in their confidence and ability to stay safe.
4. **Limit Passengers in the Car**
Having multiple passengers significantly increases the likelihood of a teen engaging in risky behavior while driving, as they may feel the need to impress their friends or succumb to peer pressure. Setting strict rules about the number of passengers—such as limiting it to zero for a while—can help reduce these risks. Some states even have laws enforcing passenger restrictions for young drivers.
5. **Use a Teen Tracking Device**
Installing a GPS tracking device in the car can help you monitor your teen’s driving behaviors, including their speed, location, and how aggressively they drive. Some devices even provide alerts if your teen has been involved in an accident or if the car needs maintenance.
Another option is tracking their phone for insights into their surroundings and movements. While these devices might feel intrusive, they can offer peace of mind and ensure your teen stays safe.
6. **Promote Open Communication**
Let your teen know it’s okay to reach out if they can’t drive or if something happens to the car. If they’re sick, have been drinking, or are on medication that affects their driving ability, encourage them to call you, a friend’s parent, or use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.
By fostering an environment of trust, your teen will feel more comfortable coming to you with concerns. Open communication is key to helping your teen become a safe and responsible driver.