Did you know that in the month of August, nearly 362,000 will be turning 16, becoming the month when most teens start to drive? According to AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, new teen drivers ages 16-17 years old are three times as likely as adults to be involved in a deadly crash. In fact, there is a concept called “100 Deadliest Days,” the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when the average number of deadly teen driver crashes climbs 15 percent compared to the rest of the year.
I still remember the days when I was learning how to drive and I did come across some situations that could have turned out really bad if my parents had not taught me but also the technology that was in the vehicle. It is a fun and exciting time to get the keys for the first time, especially when you have the whole summer to enjoy and hang out with friends, but learning about the car you are driving is what can save a life in some situations. It is unfortunate that we have periods of time where a certain age group is more prone to dangers, but it is the reality. Teen drivers often forget about the dangers that appear out of nowhere. They have not been exposed to them and in most cases, have no idea how to avoid them. Technology is on the rise and a lot of features are now standard in some vehicles but something as simple as not having a seatbelt on or speeding can take a life. Here is what we can do.
1. Create awareness: Take the time to sit down with your loved ones and make sure they’re aware that car tragedies peak during the summer. Knowledge is key, so be sure the whole family knows the statistics and takes the time to get to know their rides, maintenance needs and in-vehicle technology.
2. Remember the basics: While newer vehicles offer advanced safety technologies, recent research from NHTSA shows that deaths resulting from speeding and lack of seatbelt use are on the rise. Just these two incredibly simple things – observing speed limits and always making sure everyone is wearing a seat belt – will help you and your family stay safe.
3. Remind your family to speak up: Encourage your children to speak up if they are in a situation where safe driving practices are not being demonstrated. Summer often means your kids will be in the car with friends and family without you. No matter what age your children are, they must know it’s OK to remove themselves from dangerous driving situations.
4. Put your phone away: We know it can be tempting to pick up your mobile device while in your vehicle, but don’t do it. Make use of your vehicle’s available connectivity features like Bluetooth and hands-free calling and keep your eyes on the road. And remember your kids are watching everything you do, so modeling good behavior helps them develop good driving behaviors, too.
5. Take advantage of all the tech available: Having a teen driver today can be extremely stressful, but thanks to some of the latest technology, it’s also filled with less uncertainty than it used to be. Vehicles today have the ability to provide a report card of your driving’s behaviors and send text alerts when your teen’s vehicle has gone outside of a pre-determined area. Vehicles also have features to help remind parents that they may have left something in the back seat. Making sure you’re aware of everything your car can do to help you keep your family safe is key.
This is why educating and informing about how to be responsible when driving is vital for both parents and young drivers. All drivers are advised to take full advantage of the cutting-edge technology such as that found in new Chevy vehicle models such as:
This innovative technology works like a digital report for parents. It allows parents to monitor young drivers and provides a safety report including: the speed, if they fastened their seat belt, sets speed limits and even controls the volume of the stereo. This report can serve as a way to initiate the safety conversation with adolescent children.
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For almost 20 years and in more than in any other state, children in Texas have died inside vehicles that reach extreme temperatures. The new technology "Rear Seat Reminder" reminds the driver when something is left in the rear seats, whether it’s children, pets or other important things.
Active Safety Features and Advanced Cameras
This technology brings parents a peace of mind knowing that they, as well as their children, have the technology that guides them. These safety features warn the driver of all possible hazards around them, such as the Surround Vision Camera where the driver has a 360 degree view of the entire perimeter of the vehicle. It also includes lane departure warning, frontal collision warning and sensors that indicate the distance between the car in front.
As a dad and a young son, I have experienced plenty of dangerous situations on the road. The day my kids drive will come soon enough and I would be very nervous, almost hesitant to let them get on the road. This is why as a dad, I feel it is very important to have a great communication with our kids and be open about the real world dangers. By informing our kids about safety maneuvers, safety features, and technology we can have some peace in knowing that they are a bit safer on the road.
Join the conversation on Facebook through this Facebook LIVE talking about the 100 deadliest days and kids left in vehicles.
What are some tips or advice you would share with new or teen drivers?
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