Teen Driving Safety Resources

Teen driver safety is a topic that affects all drivers on the road. Recent studies show that motor vehicle accidents are the second-leading cause of death for ages 15 to 20. The highest risks are ages 16 and 17 – nearly three times the fatal crash rate when compared to drivers over 20.

One of the interesting bits is the range of excuses teens and other drivers give when they are pulled over for impaired or distracted driving. Here are common excuses for drunk driving compiled by NM Online Education. Have you heard these before?

• “I’ve only had two drinks.”
• “Cabs are too expensive.”
• “I’m not going very far. My house is a mile away!”

According to Forbes, the #1 excuse reported by police officers is, “I can handle my liquor.” And close behind it is, “My friends in the back are drunker than me. I’m the designated driver so I didn’t have much.” We all know true designated drivers don’t drink at all!

When it comes to cell phone use, officers in Canada noted these memorable lines from a September crackdown on distracted driving:

• “This is a bogus law.”
• “I wasn’t using it. I just like to hold it.”
• “Sorry officer, I didn’t see you trying to pull me over because I was on my phone.”

Furthermore, the CDC highlights some common risk factors when it comes to teen driving:

• Inexperience – Teens are more likely to underestimate or not recognize danger.
• Not Using Seat Belts – Nearly 42% of high school students reported not always wearing a seat belt when riding in a car driven by someone else.
• Distractions – 39% of high school students text or emailed while driving at least once during the 30 days before the survey – and now Snapchat has become a big concern.

We understand that with millions of inexperienced teen drivers on the road, accidents can happen. However, we also know the risk can be reduced with graduated driver licensing laws,  driver education,  raising awareness with parents and peers, and driver assistance technologies. I’m Safe is here to help spread that awareness.

The concern for teen drivers is a real concern and we are working on engaging new materials for teens around distracted and impaired driving, seat belt use, speeding, and drowsy driving. If you have thoughts you’d like to share, please email [email protected]. Thank you in advance!