The risk of a car accident is significantly higher for young drivers, and distracted driving can raise the stakes even further. In fact, taking your eyes off the road for just two seconds doubles your chances of being involved in a crash.
Here are a few suggestions to help teens stay focused – and safe - behind the wheel.
No photo shoots
Using Snapchat and Facebook Live while driving has become a thing, even though – like texting and talking on the phone – it’s incredibly dangerous and puts everyone on the road at risk. The simple solution is don’t do it.
Pause conversations
Put chats on hold before you drive by sending a text or putting your phone on Do Not Disturb. Put your phone somewhere you won’t be tempted to respond to texts or read alerts, such as the glovebox.
Turn down the volume
Everyone jams out to music occasionally, but try not to get so into a song that you’re taking your focus off the road. If you have passengers, keep chitchat to a minimum. Talking to passengers is a factor in many car crashes.
Speak your mind
Never hesitate to tell somebody to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. Don’t let anybody put you in a situation that you don’t want to be in. Driving is a privilege, so it’s important to drive by the rules for the safety of yourself and others.