🚗 What Every Parent Should Know About Teen Driving

Car crashes are the #1 cause of teen deaths in the U.S.
Each year, nearly 3,000 teens lose their lives in car crashes — that's up to 8 preventable deaths per day. Even responsible, high-achieving teens are at risk due to one simple fact: inexperience.

The good news? You can make a difference.

✅ Steps That Can Save Lives

You play a crucial role in your teen’s safety behind the wheel. Here’s how:

• Practice, practice, practice. Drive with your teen as much as possible to build confidence and skill.

• Set clear safety rules:

  • Always wear a seat belt — no exceptions.

  • No driving at night (especially early on).

  • Limit or prohibit passengers, especially other teens.

  • Avoid driving in bad weather conditions until experienced.

• Know your state’s laws for teen drivers. Visit cdc.gov/parentsarethekey for details.

🧭 Be the Example They Follow

Long before your teen starts driving:

• Always wear your seat belt.

• Never text or talk on the phone while driving.

• Drive at safe speeds and follow traffic laws.

Your habits become their habits.

🤝 Build a Community of Safe Drivers

• Talk with other parents about your driving rules.

• Share resources like “Parents Are the Key” to encourage responsible teen driving.

• Use social media to spread the word and save lives.

Together, we can help keep our teens safe on the road.