OCTOBER 16–22
Motor vehicle crashes are also the leading cause of death among 15- to 19-year olds in the U.S. The Nevada Office of Traffic Safety uses a Peer to Peer program to raise awareness about teen safe driving issues. Zero Teen Fatalities educates young drivers about the importance of being safe behind the wheel.
National Teen Driver Safety week is a great week to have a conversation with your teens about the importance of safe driving. Discussion topics should include the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, the importance of wearing a seat belt, distracted driving such as using a cell phone, speeding, and having too many passengers in the car.
Young people use electronic devices more frequently than other age groups and ten percent of all drivers 15 to 19 years old involved in fatal crashes were reported to be distracted at the time of the crash (NHTSA). Help make the use of technology and other distractions socially unacceptable when driving motor vehicles. Perceptions about traffic safety are developed by observing the driving behavior of parents, peers, and their communities. Using the strong influence of parents and peer to reinforce lessons about focusing attention on the roadway will help to build a foundation of lifelong safe driving skills, attitudes, and behavior.
Use the 5 to Drive rules and talk to your teens. They will listen!
