According to Allstate, 9 Americans die every day from distracted driving accidents. Distracted driving poses a risk to drivers of all ages, but is especially impactful to our younger drivers. As prom season comes to a close and summer looms ahead, let us recognize that teenage drivers are three times more likely to be in an accident as drivers 20 years of age and older. One of the causes of these accidents is distracted driving. Please discuss with your family members these common distractions while behind the wheel of an automobile.
- Texting
- Eating
- Drinking
- Reaching for your phone or other items
- Talking to another passenger
- Turning knobs in the car, like the A/C, navigation system or entertainment system
Also discuss the importance of being a courteous passenger by using low voices, putting electronics away, and refraining from acting as a “backseat driver” while keeping an eye out for dangers on the road.