The dangers of teen driving!

Each year thousands of people die in an accident caused by distracted teen drivers. Eleven states have put a ban on texting while driving. Alcohol –related accidents among teens have dropped and distracted-driving accidents are on a rise

Nearly nine in ten teenage drivers have engaged in distracted driving behaviors such as texting or talking on a cell phone. In an on-line survey of nearly 2,000 teens ages 16-19 found that 84% were aware that distracted-driving behaviors increase their crash risk. Another distracted-driving behavior is driving with multiple people in the car. This is a distraction because passengers tend to talk loud, or adjust the radio multiple times. Also the driver may want to show off for their friends and drive above the speed limit, which can also lead to a dangerous crash or a speeding ticket.


A Parent’s worst nightmare is for their kids to turn 16 and get their drivers license. Their cell phones, the radio, or their friends who may be along for the ride can easily distract teenagers while they are driving. The good news is most teens do not pass their driving test on the first try. This allows for a little more practice on becoming a safe driver. The top 4 reasons for not passing a driving test is:

1. Trying to adjust the radio.
2. Forgetting to put on a seatbelt.
3. Answering or looking at your cell phone.
4. Not utilizing both hands on the steering wheel.


Insurance companies may increase premiums once a teenager has been added to the policy due to fact he/she has no driving experience. Once they have a good driving record after a certain time frame the premium will decrease. In Pennsylvania a teenager must have their permit for 6 months before he/she is eligible to take their driving test.


Influential people like television talk show host Oprah Winfrey, and high schools that teach drivers education have begun to educate young drivers about the dangers of such distractions. Parents should practice safe driving at all times so their teenager can see first hand how important it is to be safe.