Teens are getting their driver’s licenses earlier than ever, and the responsibility of driving safely is greater than ever. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of teen deaths in the United States. As a parent, you want to ensure that your teen is informed about safe driving practices and tips to help them stay safe on the roads. Here are some tips for teens to help them stay safe while driving and driving in adverse weather conditions such as fog, snow, and ice:
Obey the Speed Limit
Teens need to obey the speed limit at all times. Speeding is one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents. Speeding and driving too fast for road conditions can reduce reaction time, increasing the risk of an accident. Teens should always pay attention to the posted speed limit and obey it. It is also essential for teens to avoid passing other vehicles and to take turns carefully at intersections.
Make Sure Your Equipment is in Working Order
It is crucial for teens to make sure their vehicles are in good working order. This includes checking the brakes, tires, lights, and windshield wipers. Worn-out tires can reduce traction in wet and icy conditions, increasing the risk of an accident. Teens should also ensure their car has enough gas and all the necessary fluids (motor oil, windshield wiper fluid, antifreeze, etc.). This can be especially important during bad weather when conditions can change quickly.
Be Prepared for Bad Weather
When driving in bad weather, teens should take extra precautions. Make sure to have a pair of sunglasses in the car to reduce glare from the sun or turn headlights on during foggy or snowy conditions. Decreased visibility can lead to dangerous accidents. Keep extra blankets, snacks, and water in the car in an emergency. It is also essential to stay aware of changing weather conditions and pull over to a safe spot if visibility is reduced due to fog or snow.
Wear Your Seat Belt
It is essential for teens to always wear seat belts while driving. Seat belts can help prevent severe injuries and even death during a crash. Teens should also ensure their passengers are wearing seat belts. Additionally, teens should avoid distractions such as using their cell phones and eating while driving.
Stay Alert
Staying alert and focused on the road is essential for safe driving. Teens should avoid distractions such as talking, texting, or using their cell phones while driving. They should also avoid drinking or taking drugs before or while driving. Teens need to get plenty of sleep the night before driving, as drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.
Avoid Tailgating
Tailgating is when a driver follows too closely behind another vehicle. This can be dangerous in any situation, but especially in bad weather. Wet or icy roads can reduce traction, increasing the risk of an accident. Teens should keep safe from other vehicles and avoid following too closely.
Listen to the Radio
Teens must stay informed of changing weather conditions. Listening to the radio can help teens stay informed of weather advisories or warnings. Many radio stations will broadcast warnings and traffic updates during bad weather. Additionally, listening to the radio can help teens stay focused and alert while driving. Music can help teens stay relaxed and in a good mood, which can help them stay focused on the road.
Conclusion
Teens are some of the safest drivers on the road when they understand the risks associated with driving and take the necessary precautions to stay safe. It is crucial for teens to obey the speed limit, make sure their vehicles are in good working order and be prepared for bad weather. Teens should always wear seat belts, avoid distractions such as texting while driving and avoid tailgating. Also, teens should listen to the radio to stay informed of weather advisories or warnings.
