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From as early as 14, teens are entering the world of driving, which can be a scary and dangerous place if not properly taught or trained according to state laws and highway regulations. With everything else going on in young people’s lives, from school to work to social media influences, driving is often overlooked as a necessary and life-saving skill.
Global Youth Traffic Month
As we enter May, it’s important to recognize and address the challenges new and inexperienced drivers face daily. With May being designated as Global Youth Traffic Month, the focus shifts to raising awareness about the safety of our youth while traveling. This is especially important as summer travel adds to the already congested roadways not only in Arkansas but across the country.
As advocates for accident victims’ rights, the team at Denton, Zachary, and Norwood PLLC Law Firm recognizes the daily challenges teen drivers encounter and the profound impact of car accidents, particularly when semi-trucks are involved. Here are some essential guidelines to safeguard not only the youth but also everyone’s well-being on the roads this May.
The Importance of Youth Traffic Safety
Young people can be more susceptible to accidents, often lacking the experience and awareness needed to navigate complex traffic situations safely. In general, traffic accidents are a leading cause of death for youth worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Understanding the Risks
From distracted driving to speeding and lack of seatbelt use, young drivers face a range of risks every time they hit the road. Even more factors such as inexperience and peer pressure can make these risks worse, which is why it’s crucial to address these issues head-on.
Taking Action for Safer Roads
As advocates for road safety, we feel a responsibility to help educate young people about the importance of safe driving practices. Through initiatives such as educational programs, awareness campaigns, and community outreach events, hopefully, the youth will feel empowered to make informed decisions behind the wheel.
Get Involved
We encourage everyone to help make our roads safer, especially for our youth. Whether it’s spreading awareness, supporting local initiatives, or advocating for policy changes, every action counts in creating a safer road environment. Here are some simple driving tips from the Arkansas Highway Safety Office.
5 Teen Driver Safety Tips
- Always wear your seat belt—every ride, every time.
Seat belts are your first line of defense in a crash, reducing the risk of serious injury or death by about half. Ensure that all occupants of the vehicle are properly restrained before starting your journey, regardless of how short the trip may be.
- Put your cell phone away.
Distracted driving, often caused by cell phone use, is a significant contributor to accidents among teen drivers. Keep your phone out of sight and out of reach while driving to minimize distractions. Consider using apps or features that automatically silence notifications while driving.
- Limit the number of passengers in your car.
Teen drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents when carrying passengers, especially peers. Limiting the number of passengers in your car can reduce distractions and help you focus on the road ahead, improving safety for everyone onboard.
- Don’t eat, drink, or put on makeup while driving.
Any activity that diverts your attention from driving increases the risk of an accident. Eating, drinking, or grooming behind the wheel can take your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road, compromising your ability to react to potential hazards.
- Obey all traffic lights, stop signs, other street signs, and road markings.
Traffic laws exist to promote order and safety on the roads. Adhering to signals, signs, and markings helps prevent collisions and ensures the smooth flow of traffic. Always follow posted speed limits and yield to pedestrians and other vehicles as required.
Contact Us
In honor of Global Youth Traffic Month, let’s renew our commitment to creating safer roads for our youth and the generations to come. By joining forces, we can enact meaningful change and guarantee that every young adult arrives at their destination unharmed. At Denton, Zachary, and Norwood PLLC Law Firm, we stand prepared to support you in the aftermath of any accident involving another automobile or a semi-truck. If you’ve been in a crash and need guidance, don’t delay—contact us now. For additional details or urgent assistance, get in touch with us today!