Car crashes are a leading cause of death and injuries for teenagers. New drivers need help building their driving skills and confidence. Education, parent support and lots of driving practice can help everyone stay safe on the road.

How Can We Avoid Teen Driving Risks?

Wear a seat belt.
Wearing a seat belt is the best protection in a car. Always fasten your seat belt before starting the car. Drivers and passengers should always wear a seat belt.

Drive distraction-free.
Avoid distractions when driving. Anything that takes the focus from driving is a distraction, such as:

• Texting or talking on the phone.
• Talking with people in the car.
• Changing the music.
• Eating and drinking.

Be more careful at night. 
Most serious crashes happen on weekends after dark.  When the sun sets, risks increase. There are many hazards to watch for. This is why the law limits nighttime driving for new drivers.

Follow the speed limit.
Speeding is a major cause of teen car crashes. Follow the speed limit and slow down in bad weather conditions. Be careful at crosswalks and areas where people are present.

Ride with fewer passengers.
More teens in the car increases the crash risk for new drivers. The law limits the number of teens that can be in the car.

Drive only when you are awake, alert and able to drive safely.
An impaired driver is a person who cannot drive safely because alcohol, drugs, medicines or not getting enough sleep. It is not safe to drive when impaired. Do not get in the car with a driver who is impaired.

Be involved parents.
Parents play an important role in helping teens drive safely. Involved parents can lower their teen’s crash risk. Set clear driving rules and talk with your teen about safe driving habits. Check in regularly and support good choices. Parents can be a good role model for safe driving by following safe driving rules.

Know Wisconsin law.
The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) law has rules that help keep new drivers safe.

Children’s Wisconsin has a Teen Driving Program that provides resources and information about teen driving and reducing the risks.

safekidswi.org
teendriving@childrenswi.org