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Keep Teen Drivers Safe During Spring Break

Teen Drivers

After being cooped up all winter, drivers eagerly jump behind the wheel to enjoy countryside travels and weekend trips during the warmer months. This includes teenage drivers who may get their first taste of driving freedom during the spring. Still, teen drivers lack both driving experience and confidence, which increases their risk of getting into a serious car accident. By following a few simple rules, teenagers can ensure that they build up a clean driving record and become exceptional drivers.

Take Regular Breaks on Longer Road Adventures

Even people who drive professionally know that they become less responsive and their reaction times suffer the longer they sit in one place. For this reason, commercial truckers regularly stop to get out of their vehicles and move around. Teen drivers should follow suit. Every hour or so, teenagers should make a pit stop to take a breather. This also presents a perfect opportunity for another driver to take over for the next leg of the journey. Swapping drivers means an alert person always remains in control of the vehicle.

Never Drive While Under the Influence

Drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs is unacceptable. Not only is it illegal, but it increases the chances of getting into a fatal crash. Far too many teen deaths have resulted from avoidable drinking and drugged driving collisions. Statistics indicate that roughly one-fifth of young male drivers who have died in a crash had blood alcohol limits over the legal level.

Avoid All Distractions

Distracted driving accidents are common; this includes fiddling with the radio or eating a sandwich while driving. However, texting while driving is by far one of the most prevalent distractions for drivers of all ages, especially among young people. Teen drivers should remove any cellphone distractions by putting their phone on mute or silent. They may also want to keep their phone in a bag, console, or glove compartment.

Stop Driving When Sleep Deprivation Hits

Studies have shown that nothing can completely combat intense drowsiness in drivers. Though some drivers swear by rolling down their windows or gulping energy drinks, far too many drivers fall asleep behind the wheel. This puts them, other drivers, and passengers in harm’s way. Teens should learn to pull over in safe spots and nap for at least 20 to 30 minutes if they feel sleepy. Even a modest amount of sleep can help push away mental fog.

Pay Attention on Unfamiliar Routes

Sometimes, teen motorists use spring break as opportunities to head to the shore or mountains with their friends. These excursions can put them on unfamiliar roads with unexpected twists, turns, and speed limit regulations. A teenage driver with other people in the car needs to focus on the road. Mapping out the route ahead of time can help. Passengers should avoid engaging the driver in distracting conversations. Teen driving accidents happen and not necessarily because of the teen driver. Teens should understand that after a collision, they need to call emergency personnel and exchange insurance information with the other party immediately.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC Advocate for Victims Injured in All Types of Car Accidents

Did your teen get into a car crash that resulted in serious injuries? If so, contact one of our Philadelphia car accident lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC today. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 215-569-8488. Located in Philadelphia, Media, and Abington, Pennsylvania; Wilmington, Delaware; and Haddonfield, New Jersey, we represent clients throughout the surrounding areas.