Keeping Your Teen Safe on The Road

Back to school means handing your teen new books, new pencils, and in some cases, a set of car keys. Having a student driver in the house can be nerve-wracking for any parent, so how can you keep your teen safe on the road?

There are many factors contributing to car accidents among teen drivers, including:

Inexperience: A teen driver is a new driver that hasn't had the time to develop the skills and experience of others on the road.
Distracted driving: Cell phones, passengers, and the radio can all distract young drivers.
Speeding: Young drivers often underestimate the risks associated with speeding and overestimate their driving abilities.
Alcohol and drug use: Underage drinking and drug use can significantly impair a teen's driving abilities, leading to severe accidents.
Peer pressure: Peer pressure can cause teens to engage in risky and reckless behavior on the road.

HOW Can I KEEP MY TEEN SAFE?

Teen drivers can take several steps to minimize their risk of accidents. The best ways to stay safe on the road include:

Seatbels: Model good behavior: Always wear your seatbelt and teach your teen to do the same.
Avoid distractions: Stay focused on the road by avoiding distractions such as cell phones, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving. Texting or using apps can divert your attention, increasing the likelihood of an accident. Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel at all times.
Obey the rules of the road: Adhere to posted speed limits and adjust your driving speed based on weather and road conditions.
Never drive under the influence: Explain the dire risks of driving uner the influence to your teen, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Limit the number of passengers: Place reasonable limits on the number of passengers you teen may have in the car, especially other teenagers. Having multiple passengers can be distracting and increase the temptation to engage in risky behaviors. Fewer passengers helps them stay focused on their driving.

Unfortunately, even with the best precautions, car accidents in Florida still happen If your teen is injured in a car accident caused by another driver's negligence, we're here to fight to get them the compensation they deserve.