Distracted driving is the leading cause of accidents among teens. Here are some tips to help keep our youth safe while on the road.

1. Eyes on the road at all times.

Your teen driver should stay focused on the road and limit phone usage until you reach your destination.

2. Never multitask while driving.

Facetiming while driving is never okay! Talk to your teens about road safety and the dangers of multitasking behind the wheel.

3. Buckle up.

It’s a fact that seatbelts save lives. Studies show that your chances of surviving a car crash increase by 45% when buckling up.

4. Set a curfew at night.

Ensuring your teenager returns home safely at a reasonable hour is important, as staying out late could lead to drowsy and inattentive driving, increasing the risk of potential accidents.

5. Maintain a positive, proactive approach to driving.

Have your teen driver undergo a positive “attitude” check to help them understand the responsibilities of getting behind the wheel. This means having a conversation with your child about safe driving practices and how to handle emergencies on the road.

As a parent, exhibiting safe, appropriate, and polite driving behaviors is crucial to set the right example for your teenager. This process starts early when your child is in the backseat observing how you drive.

For more traffic safety tips, visit the Drive Aloha website at www.drivealoha.com.