Driver Safety For Teenagers – What Do You Teach Your Teens?

Today, I wanted to write about something that is near and dear to me, driver safety for teenagers.  This topic is very important to me because I currently have a teenage driver and will have a second one driving soon.

As a personal injury attorney, I all too often see the devastation and grief caused by serious accidents.  I’m often reminded of how quickly an accident can occur and how severely it can change your life.

As we know, car accidents are the leading cause of death among American Teenagers.  Statistics also show that teenagers are involved in three times as many fatal accidents as all other drivers combined.

Research shows that the following behaviors contribute to teen-related wrecks every day:

  • Inexperience and immaturity
  • Speeding
  • Not wearing a seat belt
  • Distracted driving or texting while driving,
  • Cell phone use in general
  • Loud music
  • Other teens in the car
  • Drinking and driving

Louisiana has the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which places several restrictions on new drivers so they gain driving experience in a safe environment.  It also is a three-tier licensing program.  Each tier has various restrictions.  As you graduate up each level you gain more experience and more privileges.  (For further detailed information visit the Louisiana Highway Safety Laws at GHSA.org.)

I know my wife and I work hard to educate our Teens on the importance of safety whey they’re driving.  But beyond that we try to set a good example for them and not just speak the words.

I would love to hear how you teach your teenager about driver safety and how to avoid accidents. Do you use scare tactics and show them the gruesome videos and pictures of accidents?  Or do you educate them and share information with them?