Most teen drivers pick up their bad and good driving habits from their parents. Parents who are poor role models behind the wheel often have children who show little responsibility when driving – and this may even increase the likelihood of them being involved in an accident. According to the Driving Change Report published by Allstate Foundation, teens consider their parents to be the biggest influence when it comes to their driving behaviors.
Statistics
The Allstate Foundation’s report showed that parents are just as guilty as teens when it comes to poor and risky driving behaviors – especially when it came to things like distracted driving and even speeding. In fact, their study showed that:
- 84 percent of parents admitted to Allstate that they speeded with their teen drivers in the car, while 79 percent of teens stated that they do drive faster than the published speed limit while driving themselves.
- 88 percent of parents admitted that they use their cellphones while driving – while 87 percent of the teens surveyed admitted to talking, texting or reading emails while driving.
Speeding and distracted driving are two of the biggest contributors to car accidents across the country – and both are illegal for most states. In fact, distracted driving can be just as dangerous as driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
According to DistractedDriving.gov, distracted driving has claimed more than 3,154 lives in 2013. A few other statistics further showing how dangerous distracted driving is includes:
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that in the United States there are an estimated 660,000 vehicles being driven by those holding cellphones at any time (2011).
- In 2012, more than two-thirds of drivers nationwide admitted to talking on their cellphones while driving at least once in the last 30 days.
Unfortunately, adults still do not feel that distracted driving is dangerous – even after studies have shown the delayed responses and the dangers associated with removing eyes from the road even for a few seconds.
Most Parents Are Unaware of Teen Driving Habits – Good or Bad
Unfortunately most parents are clueless when it comes to the driving habits of their teens. They do not monitor their driving activities nor do they themselves exhibit good driving behaviors – only further influencing poor habits behind the wheel. Today, teen drivers are still one of the more dangerous groups behind the wheel and are a threat to those around them – especially when they engage in risky or dangerous behaviors.
Parents can help reduce their teen’s risk just by taking a more active role in helping them to develop good driving habits. Parents should also always exhibit good driving habits themselves – habits such as maintaining the speed limit, never driving recklessly and of course, refraining from distracted driving at all times.
Injured in a Car Accident? Speak with a Car Accident Attorney in Louisville
If you or a loved one was injured because of a reckless or distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact Gladstein Law Firm, PLLC today for a free consultation. Schedule online or call us to get started.
