Top Tips for Younger Drivers

  1. Keep Your Cell Phone Off
    Multiple studies indicate using a cell phone while driving is the equivalent of driving drunk?that's even when using a hands-free phone.
  2. Don't Text
    Research shows texting?on average?causes a loss of focus on the road for five seconds. A lot can go wrong in those five seconds. Don't try the "texting-while-stopped" approach, either, as many states ban texting while behind the wheel. And, when you have your head down, you won't notice key developments that may occur, even when you're stuck at a red light.
  3. Turn on Your Headlights
    Doing so can increase your visibility and help other drivers see you, even on sunny days.
  4. Obey the Speed Limit
    Speeding causes a high number of fatal teen accidents. That's especially true when driving on roads with lots of traffic or you're not familiar with. Don't feel pressured to keep up with traffic if it seems like everyone else is flying by you. Driving a safe speed helps ensure your well-being, and keeps you away from costly traffic tickets that can cause a sharp hike in your insurance premiums.
  5. Minimise Distractions
    It may be tempting to eat, drink, flip around the radio dial, or play music loudly while you're cruising around town; however, all can cause your mind or vision to wander, even for a few seconds. And, that can be enough for an inexperienced driver to lose control of your car, or not notice an obstacle in the road.
  6. Drive Solo
    Having a single teen passenger in your car can double the risk of causing a car accident. Adding additional teen passengers causes the risk to escalate.
  7. Practice Defensive Driving
    Always be aware of the traffic ahead, behind, and next to you, and have possible escape routes in mind. Stay at least one car length behind the car in front of you in slower speeds, and maintain a larger buffer zone with faster speeds.
  8. Choose a Safe Car
    If possible, drive a safe car with the latest safety equipment (such as anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and air bags), and one with an excellent crash safety record.