blog post
top tips for keeping our teen drivers safe
It probably feels like your child’s first steps were just last week, but now your child is ready to drive! Teens are so excited to hit the road and gain the freedom and independence that driving offers. Let’s help them do so safely and set them up to be responsible drivers. Dayton Children’s has seen 114 teen driver injuries already in 2023. Of those patients seen, 14 teens were admitted with severe injuries that required surgery. These injuries included spine fractures, spinal cord injuries, intraabdominal injuries, head injuries, and fractures to the arms, legs, hands and feet.
New drivers need to learn to navigate the unexpected and unpredictable challenges that come along with operating a motor vehicle. The weather can change, and road conditions or distractions can impact both new and more seasoned drivers alike. Dayton Children’s has some tips to help support teen drivers:
- Remember to set the example for your new driver. Follow traffic laws, put the phone down and use your seatbelt every time.
- Brush up on the newest driving laws, Ohio has a new law that went into place on October 5, 2023. Learn more here: Phones Down. It's the Law. | Ohio Department of Transportation
- Once your child has their driving permit, be sure to practice driving in various situations including heavy traffic, at night or when the weather changes.
- While on the road stay calm and offer feedback to help your teen become a safe, confident driver. Address mistakes once the vehicle is parked.
- Learning how to drive doesn’t end when a teenager gets their license. Talk to your teen about clear rules and consider utilizing the Safe Kids Worldwide parent-teen driving contract to help establish responsibility and accountability.
- Encourage your child to speak up if a driver of any age isn't driving safely and makes them feel scared. Provide them with alternative plans to get home, just in case.
- Finally, ensure everyone in the car is properly restrained using a seatbelt or car seat, even the safest drivers can get in car crashes.
Unsafe and distracted driving can lead to devastating injuries and even death. Start using these tips today to ensure safer driving practices. Watch Kaylyn’s story to hear first-hand how not wearing a seatbelt can lead to severe injury.
