October 21-27, 2018

This week and every week, parents should have conversations with their teens about the important rules they need to follow to stay safe behind the wheel of a passenger car, truck, or SUV. These rules address the greatest dangers for teen drivers: alcohol, inconsistent or no seat belt use, distracted and drowsy driving, speeding, and number of passengers.

The Problem: Too many teens are dying on our roads

• Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens (15-18 years old) in the United States – ahead of all other types of injury, disease, or violence.
• In 2016, there were 2,288 people killed in crashes involving a teen driver (15-18 years old), of which 814 deaths were the teen driver – a 6% increase from 2015.
• Parents can be the biggest influences on teens’ choices behind the wheel if they take the time to talk with their teens about some of the biggest driving risks.

Even if you think they don’t hear you, they do. Remember, set the rules before they hit the road.