The statistics surrounding teenage driving accidents are worrying. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "car accidents are the number one cause of teen deaths in the world." 2015 saw six teenagers die from car crashes every day, and 2,300 by the end of the year.

To protect teenagers from car accidents, parents and young drivers should know how to prevent car crashes.

Safety Rules to Help Teenagers Avoid Car Crashes

Teenagers make up 14 percent of the population, yet they are involved in 30 percent of all car accidents. Many of these accidents are preventable if you take safety precautions. Below are some regulations to help teenagers drive safely.

Ensure Supervised Driving

Parents play a significant role in teenagers' safety if they supervise their driving. Research shows that parents who supervise their teens' driving help reduce the risk of accidents. Parents can do this by:

  • Enforcing driver's ed
  • Keeping their teen in the learner's permit phase for at least six months
  • Getting their teen a probationary license
  • Co-developing house rules and keys control

Always Wear a Seatbelt

As a teenage driver, make it a habit to wear your seatbelt before you drive. Seat belts help save your life in certain accidents.

Do Not Drive Under the Influence

Driving and drug use is a bad idea, and it is also illegal. Records presented by the CDC show that teens face a greater risk of death in an alcohol-related crash. Stay away from consuming alcohol or any illegal drug before or while driving.

Limit Your Passengers

Teenagers, especially new drivers, should limit the number of passengers for their safety. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study shows that teen drivers are twice as likely to engage in potentially risky behaviors when driving with a teenage peer. The likelihood increased to three times when compared to driving alone.

Avoid Distracted Driving

Research shows that texting and talking on the phone while driving increase the chance of a teenage accident by 23 times and six times, respectively. Any activity that demands your attention other than driving itself should be avoided. If you must use a phone, pull over safely to the side of the road.

Drive Slowly

While driving, keep to the state's speed limits to ensure your safety. Teen drivers should avoid speeding as it reduces their ability to control the car. According to detailed research by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), "teenagers were involved in 19,447 speeding-related crashes between 2000 and 2011."

Limit Night Driving

Teenagers face a risk of accidents three times greater when they drive at night than during the day. Yet statistically, roughly a third of fatal teen crashes happen after dark. Things like low visibility and fatigue can contribute to an accident occurring.

Do Not Drive Under Bad Weather Conditions.

Driving through poor weather conditions can be dangerous for teenage drivers. It is important to train well for these weather conditions before you drive on your own.

“An inexperienced teen driver should have enough supervised practice to reduce the risk of accidents,” says attorney John Yannone of Price Benowitz Accident Injury Lawyers, LLP. “With practice and conversations with experienced drivers, teenagers can better understand how to react in split-second scenarios.

Prioritize Vehicle Safety

When a teen plans to get a car, they should select one with high safety ratings. Vehicle maintenance is also important for keeping the car in optimal condition.

Conclusion

Neglecting safety rules is the easiest way for a teen car crash. While there are many unforeseen accidents, teenagers can reduce the risk and protect themselves by following our tips.