National Youth Traffic Safety Month in May is a nationwide effort to spread awareness about road safety measures. Spring is in the air and summer vacation is just around the corner, and there are also exciting events like prom and graduation to look forward to. Unfortunately, these festivities come with potential distractions that could lead teens to make regrettable decisions behind the wheel.

Preventing tragedies caused by distracted driving involves a family-wide and community-wide effort. Here are some suggestions on how you can do your part:

Parents

Parents should lead by example and never drive while distracted. It’s also important for parents to sit down and have an open conversation with their young drivers about the responsibilities that come with driving and the dangers of distractions behind the wheel.

Reinforce distraction-free driving with a family pledge. Get everyone involved and commit to making a conscious effort to stay focused while on the road. This way, everyone is held accountable, and a positive family culture is created centered around safe driving practices.

Teens

Cell phone usage and texting are the leading causes of teen motor vehicle crashes, accounting for one in five accidents.

Teens can be the best ambassadors for safe driving practices among their peers. They can speak up and influence their friends to avoid distracted driving. All teens should take this responsibility seriously and speak up when they see a friend reaching for their phone. It could save their friend’s life, prevent accidents, and ensure everyone makes it home safely.

Educators

Educators can be valuable allies. By spreading awareness and promoting responsible driving practices, they can play a significant role in ensuring the safety of their students. If you’re an educator, discuss the dangers of distracted driving with your students and encourage them to commit to distraction-free driving. By working together and taking action, we can make a difference and create a safer driving culture for everyone.