Deadliest Day for Teen Drivers
The American Automobile Association (AAA) recently released a report that states July 4th is the most dangerous day for teens to die in car accidents. With kids out of school, more teens are behind the wheel or riding as passengers, increasing the risk of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident.
The organization listed the top ten most deadly days for teen drivers. Other days in the top ten include several days at the end of the school year, and also several at the end of the summer. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the number of teens killed per month in traffic accidents increases by more than 50 deaths.
Despite this being such a deadly time of year for teen drivers, the number of teens being killed in motor vehicle accidents has decreased overall. Many officials point to graduated licensing laws as being one of the main reasons for the decrease.
New Jersey teens that receive their probationary license will have a few restrictions upon their driving privileges. First, teens may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., with certain exemptions in place. Second, there will be a limit to the number of passengers that may be in the vehicle. Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seat belt.
Parents may want to create a safe driving plan with their teen driver. Discuss with teens how important it is to refrain from texting or talking on a cellphone while driving. Have your son or daughter tell you where he or she is going, so that you can help them plan a safe route.
It is important to discuss these things before your teen starts driving. Helping them understand how to behave while behind the wheel is a crucial component of learning how to drive and how to react to potentially dangerous situations that may arise.
Source: Washington Post "July 4: Deadliest day for teen drivers" Ashley Halsey III, July 2, 2012.