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Teen Safety Tips

Driver Safety Tips for Teenagers

  • Always wear your seat belt.
  • Obey the speed limit. Going too fast gives you less time to react.
  • Use your turn signals so other drivers know what you are doing.
  • Don't drink and drive. Drinking under the age of 21 is illegal.
  • Focus on the driving task-the road and the conditions around you.
  • Don't use your cell phone while driving. This is a distraction that will take your attention away from driving.
  • Don't eat or drink while driving. These are also distractions.
  • Plan ahead. Know where you are going and get directions.
  • Leave early. Give yourself plenty of time to get there. 

Teaching Your Teenager to Drive

  • Set an example.
  • Know the rules of the road.
  • Make sure your vehicle is safe and well-maintained.
  • Be familiar with the tasks and requirements of teaching your teen to drive. Use The Parent's Supervised Driving Program Guidebook (PDF).
  • Start out slow and simple, in a low traffic area or a parking lot.
  • Work your way into more difficult driving.
  • Talk about driving.
  • Allow your teen to drive in all situations and all kinds of weather.
  • There is no such thing as too much practice.

After Your Teenager Receives His or Her Driver's License

  • Limit the number of passengers.
  • Enforce a curfew.
  • Gradually increase the amount of time you allow your teen to drive.
  • Gradually increase the distance you allow your teen to drive.
  • Do not allow your teen to eat or drink while driving.
  • Do not allow your teen to use a cell phone while driving.
  • Enforce observance of speed limits and other rules of the road.
  • Do not allow your teen to drink and drive. Drinking under the age of 21 is illegal.
  • Ride with your teen occasionally to monitor his or her driving skills.