The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has kicked off a week-long public safety campaign to help educate the state’s 853,000-plus licensed teen drivers and their parents on safe driving practices.
The safety campaign recognizing National Teen Driver Safety Week began on Sunday, October 15 and runs through Saturday, October 21.
Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for teenagers across the United States. While Florida teens (ages 15 to 19) represent approximately 5% of Florida’s driving population, more than 11% of all vehicle crashes in Florida involve a teen driver, according to FLHSMV.
“It is important for teen drivers to develop driving habits that keep them, their passengers, and others on the road safe,” stated FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “National Teen Driver Safety Week brings to the forefront the responsibility that comes with a license and the safe practices that should occur every time they are behind the wheel so that everyone can arrive alive.”
Florida Highway Patrol Colonel Gary Howze II stated that National Teen Driver Safety Week is a great time for parents and caregivers to remind teen drivers of safe driving habits. “Help make Florida’s roadways safer by educating your children on the dangers associated with speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and not wearing a seatbelt.”
In 2022, just over 23% (one in four) of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes were cited for speeding and/or aggressive driving behaviors, such as following too closely, running a stop light/sign, making an unsafe/improper lane change, improperly passing, or failing to yield the right of way, according to FLHSMV.
Parents, family members, and friends of teen drivers are encouraged to communicate what safe driving looks like and how to practice it daily. Additionally, teens should be aware of their licenses’ limitations and the associated driving hours and rules.
FLHSMV recommends that teen drivers follow these tips before hitting the road:
- Buckle up.
- Keep passengers to a minimum to minimize distractions.
- The GPS is your BFF and will help you navigate to your destination.
- Make sure you are showing your vehicle some love by checking your tires, transmission, brakes, windshield, and engine.
- Your vehicle needs gas – make sure you have enough to reach your destination.
- Never drive (or ride) with someone who is impaired.
For tips on how to talk to teens about driving safety, or to view other campaign resources, visit the FLHSMV ‘Teen Driver Safety’ website.