Save a Life: Don’t Text and Drive

Texting while driving is becoming a life-threatening norm in our society. This is especially true for teenagers. Every day six teens are killed in a car crash in the United States.  Distracted driving is the cause of death for seven percent of those deaths. This is more than any other age group on the road. At Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, we treated 49 teen drivers in 2022.  

Recent research from Safe Kids Worldwide shows that parents can have a big impact in helping teens to be safe behind the wheel. Below are four tips to help keep your teenager safe.

1. Model Good Behavior

The best way to help your child is to set a good example for them to follow. Your child is always monitoring what you are doing. If you actively try not to use your phone while driving, then your child is less likely to do the same. As you drive and they are in the car, take the time to teach them the importance of not using your phone while driving.

2. Establish Good Habits While They Are Learning

Stress to your child that they should not use their phone while driving. When they have their learner’s permit, make sure you have them put their phone down before they start the car. Encourage them to not touch it until they get to their destination. This is great practice for them before they get their license.

3. Don’t Text Them While They Are Driving

Many times, parents will check in with their kids while they are out. If you know that your child is driving at the moment you want to text them, wait until you know they are at their destination.  Encourage your teen to text you before they start the car or wait until they arrive at their destination to check in.

4. Create a Teen and Parent Driving Agreement

A driving agreement is a great tool to share the expectations you have for your child while they are driving. By signing the agreement, the teen acknowledges the real consequences that could happen if they break the agreement. It has been proven, that when a formal agreement is in place teens are less likely to engage in risky behavior while driving.

Click the link below for a sample agreement from Safe Kids Worldwide that you can use with your teenager.

Safe Kids Worldwide Teen/Parent Driving Agreement