Need to Know Info for Indiana Teen Drivers
For many high school students throughout Indiana, spring and summer are usually associated with prom, graduation ceremonies, and eventually three months of "freedom" during summer vacation. These events are sure to present teenagers across Indiana with the added responsibilty of driving longer distances with greater than normal passengers in their vehicles. While these were exciting times for all of us and continue to be for high school students, it is crucial that teenage drivers understand the dangers and pitfalls associated with inexperienced driving.
Studies completed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ("NHTSA") showed that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for 15-year-olds to 20-year-olds. According to the NHTSA, in 2005, 3,467 15-year-old to 20-year-old drivers were fatally injured in motor vehicle accidents and 12.6% of all drivers involved in fatal crashes were in this age group. Research has also shown that a teenage driver's risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accident undoubtedly increases as the number of passengers in the vehicle increases.
Here are some things for young drivers to think about as they get behind the wheel this summer:
Limit your distractions and focus on your driving
o Try to only use your cell phone in emergency situations, and even though earpieces/headsets are preferable to hand-held cell phones, they still are a distraction when driving
o Remember that text messaging while driving creates even greater risk, requiring you to look away from the road for longer periods of time
Never drink and drive
o In 2005, NHTSA reports that 23% of drivers 15-years-old to 20-years-old who died in motor vehicle crashes had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 g/dl or higher
o After consuming alcohol teenage drivers are more likely to not wear seat belts leading to more fatal injuries
Know your driving ability level and only drive in situations where you feel comfortable
o For young drivers just starting out, busy interstates and heavily populated urban areas are not the best places to learn the ropes
o Build confidence and develop your driving skills in areas that are less congested and that you feel comfortable driving in
