JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens and Florida has more than 800,000 teens of driving age.
As we mark National Teen Driver Safety Week, law enforcement agencies across the state are putting out some important safety reminders for families.
A few simple changes to your daily routine, like wearing a seat belt and following the speed limit, can make a difference.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, one in four teen drivers involved in fatal crashes were cited for speeding and aggressive driving behaviors, including:
- Running a stop light or sign
- Unsafe or improper lane change
- Improper passing
- Failing to yield the right of way
To prevent this type of behavior, parents, family members and friends are encouraged to lead by example.
Loved ones should communicate what safe driving looks like and how to practice it daily.
Teens should be aware of their licenses’ limitations and the associated driving hours and rules.
Teens can also follow these tips from NHTSA:
- Don’t drive impaired
- Buckle up and make sure your passengers do too
- Keep your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel and mind on the task of driving
- Follow the posted speed limit
- Limit passengers
National Teen Driver Safety Week runs through Saturday.