Teen Driving Safety Tips

I just read an article in my local paper about teen drivers and how accidents increase during the summer months. I thought I'd share some safety tips with you. These are useful to all drivers, not just teens.

Before you start to drive:

- Put on your seat belt and make sure all your passengers buckle up, too.

- Never try to fit more people in the car than you have seat belts for them to use. Most states have laws requiring seat belt use, at least by the passengers in the front seats.

- Maintain your car. Bald tires, a slipping transmission, bad brakes, or a hesitant engine could lead to accidents.

- Don't drink and drive, and don't ride with anyone who has been drinking. Don’t be afraid to call parents or friends to take you home if you need a ride.

- Don't take drugs or drive if you've taken any. Don't ride with anyone who has been using drugs. Even some over the counter drugs can make you drowsy. Check label for warnings.

- Use a designated driver when going out for a night on the town with friends. This person does not drink at all and has the responsibility of getting people home safely

While on the road:

- Obey the speed limits--going too fast gives you less time to stop or react. Excess speed is one of the main causes of teenage accidents.

- Obey stop signs and traffic lights -- don't run yellow or red lights.

- Use turn signals to indicate your intention to turn or to change lanes.

- Don't blast the radio, CD, or MP3 player. You might miss hearing a siren or a horn that could warn you of possible trouble.

- Don't fiddle with the radio or your iPod while you are driving. Doing so will take your attention away from the road. Pull over if you have to.

- Don't talk on the cell phone, text, put on make-up, comb your hair, or eat while driving. People who talk on cell phones while driving are four times more likely to have an accident.

- Be aware of the weather, traffic congestion, and road conditions – stay alert!