Teen driver safety greatly influenced by parents says AAA survey

SALT LAKE CITY — Parents of teen drivers, your kids are listening to your advice when it comes to safe driving rules.

That’s what a new survey from Triple-A reports. And further, Triple-A says no one influences teen driver safety more than parents. But that’s only if parents are talking to their teens about the rules, the risks and the dangers of driving.  

The new information comes during National Teen Driver Safety Week (Oct. 17-23).  During this week, AAA Utah and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are encouraging parents to talk to their teen drivers about top safety tips.  “Teen drivers are still gaining experience behind the wheel,” said AAA Utah spokesperson, Aldo Vazquez.

“Parents can help them make smart choices to stay safe on the road by sharing their experience.”

Teen driver safety tips parents should discuss

Moms and dads should stress to avoid impaired driving.  Driving under the influence is not only illegal, it’s also dangerous.

When it comes to distracted driving, parents should set the example while driving with their teens.  Refrain from all distractions while driving. 

Remember to emphasize that speeding is also very risky when behind the wheel.  More than any other age group, teens are most likely to speed.

Finally, parents should be the role model when it comes to buckling up.  Teen drivers are the least likely age group to wear a seatbelt.

There’s more information here about National Teen Driver Safety.

 

Read more:

• Utah rolls out summer driving safety tips with “Summer Safely” campaign

• The road to Zero Fatalities

• With kids back to school, watch for crosswalk and bus safety

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