As many teens will be heading back to school this fall in their first cars, it’s important to review safety precautions before handing them the keys. New drivers are some of the most dangerous on the road — not only to themselves, but to others as well. Timid, tentative drivers frequently make unsafe drivers, so the American Automobile Association has compiled a new list of teen safety tips. These are great ideas for every driver to brush up on.
- Speeding: It’s simple to just follow the speed limit signs, but it’s also important to remember keeping up with traffic is just as important. Always leave enough distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
- Vision: Whether you’ve got perfect 20/20 vision or need contact lenses, looking ahead while you drive is one of the most critical things you can do as a driver. It seems like common sense, but looking ahead and analyzing your drive for the next 10-15 seconds can prevent last-minute lane changes and prevent fender-benders.
- Stay focused: So many teens are used to multitasking, but driving is no time for that. AAA recommends that parents limit the number of passengers in the vehicle at one time, and as always, cell phone calls and text messaging should be left for after the drive.
These are just a few of the tips AAA touched on in the Chicago Tribune. Visit the AAA website at www.aaa.com to get more information.
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