FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 27, 2011
Contact: Jonathan Adkins
(202)789-0942, ext. 13
(202)669-9746, cell
Parents Hold the Key to Prevent Deadly Summer for Teen Drivers
WASHINGTON, D.C.—As the Memorial Day holiday weekend kicks off, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) urges parents to take the lead in ensuring their teen drivers are safe this summer. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is the deadliest for drivers ages 15-20. To keep teens safe, GHSA offers parents the following tips:
- Buckle up. Always remind your teenager how important the single click of a seat belt can be. Statistics show that seat belt usage is lowest among teenagers, even though seat belts continue to be the most effective life-saving device in crashes.
- Don't drink and drive. You may assume your teen knows this, but it's worth a sit-down talk. Make sure your teen knows the dangers of driving under the influence—or getting into a vehicle with someone who's been drinking.
- Don't speed. Make sure your teen leaves early for summer activities so that they are not tempted to speed.
- Avoid distractions. Remind your teen driver to avoid distractions such as texting, cell phone use, loud music and any activities that take their eyes away from the road.
- Take a drive. Is your son or daughter driving friends to a summer concert? Tell your teen you will drive the route with him or her to make sure they know exactly where they are going.
- Set a passenger limit. Always set a strict limit on the number of passengers allowed in the car. There should be no more than one teen passenger in the car. Less is more.
- Set a curfew. Make sure your teens know when you expect them home, and make sure they know it is not debatable.
- Set a good example. Your teen will do as you do, so set a good example and drive safely.
Need help? Visit Ford Driving Skills for Life's website, (www.drivingskillsforlife.com), for resources including a parents' guide and online driving academy. Ford and GHSA developed this free program to complement driver education efforts in schools and communities.
Wondering what the teen driving law is in your state? Find out at www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/license_laws.html.
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The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA)® is a nonprofit association representing the highway safety offices of states, territories, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. GHSA provides leadership and representation for the states and territories to improve traffic safety, influence national policy, enhance program management and promote best practices. Its members are appointed by their Governors to administer federal and state highway safety funds and implement state highway safety plans. Contact GHSA at 202-789-0942 or visit www.ghsa.org. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GHSAhq.