1. Always Wear Your Seatbelt
One of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe on the road is to always wear a seatbelt. Teen drivers should make it a habit to buckle up every time they get into the car, whether they’re driving or riding as a passenger.
Why Seatbelts Matter:
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Reduces risk of injury: Wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a crash by up to 50%.
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Sets a good example: Teens who consistently wear seatbelts are more likely to encourage their passengers to do the same, creating a safer environment for everyone in the car.
At Drive Rite Academy, we emphasize the importance of seatbelt use in every lesson, teaching teens to make it an automatic part of their driving routine.
2. Limit Distractions
Distracted driving is a major contributor to teen accidents. Whether it's texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving, distractions take attention away from the road. It only takes a few seconds of distraction to cause a serious accident.
How to Avoid Distractions:
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Put your phone away: Use your phone only in emergency situations. Keep it out of reach or in “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving to avoid the temptation of texting or checking notifications.
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Limit passengers: Having multiple friends in the car can be a major distraction for teen drivers. Many states have graduated licensing systems that limit the number of passengers new drivers can have.
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Focus on driving: Stay alert to what’s happening around you whether it’s pedestrians, cyclists, or other cars on the road. Your full attention should always be on driving.