You've probably heard these tips before, but National Teen Driver Safety Month is a great time to remind your kids and yourself of the best practices behind the wheel.
According to AAA, nearly 60 percent of moderate-to-severe teen crashes were due to distracted driving. Distractions account for many crashes, teen or otherwise.
Some of the biggest distractions while driving that can lead to crashes are:
- Interacting with other passengers
- Cell phone usage
- Looking at something in the car
- Looking at something outside of the car
- Singing or dancing along to music
- Personal grooming
- Reaching for something in the car
Parents should set an example for their teen drivers and avoid speeding, distracted driving and always wear a seat belt.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers a "5 to drive" checklist. Talk to your teen about these five things they need to do:
- Don't use cell phones in the car.
- Don't have extra passengers
- Don't speed
- Don't drink alcohol
- Don't forget to wear your seat belt
