This week marks National Teen Driver Safety Week. According to AAA, new teen drivers are three times as likely as adults to be involved in a deadly crash.
But AAA says graduated drivers licenses greatly reduce that risk. New AAA Foundation research shows an encouraging trend of teen drivers obtaining their license before the age of 18, compared to seven years ago. According to the study, more than 60 percent of teens get their driver’s license before the age of 18, which is an 11 percent increase compared to 2012.
“Past trends of waiting until you turn 18 to be licensed was a cause for concern," Mark Jenkins with AAA said. "Many of these young drivers were getting behind the wheel with minimal knowledge or support, putting themselves and others at risk. Now, more teens are starting to drive at an age when they can gradually learn the necessary skills to be safe behind the wheel, and that is great news for all drivers."
In Florida, teens can start a graduated license program at 15 years old, when they can obtain a learner's license, and may drive during specific hours while accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. They can drive alone at 16, with restrictions from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. At 17 years old, those restrictions change to 1 a.m. to 5 a.m.
Previous AAA Foundation research found that drivers first licensed at age 18 are more likely to be involved in a crash resulting in injuries during their first year of solo driving than new drivers licensed at any other age.
AAA recommends that no matter when you learn how to drive, new drivers should remember to “R.E.A.D the road”:
R = Right speed, for right now: Always mind the speed limit and reduce your speed when traveling in adverse weather conditions.
E = Eyes up, brain on: Always scan the road to anticipate dangers ahead. Eliminate distractions and keep your mind focused on the task of driving.
A = Anticipate their next move: Be aware of other drivers on the road. Anticipate their next move and always have a plan to respond.
D = Huge DONUT of space around your vehicle: Keep large amounts of space to the front and sides of your vehicle.
For tools for parents and new drivers, visit TeenDriving.AAA.com for a variety of tools to help prepare parents and teach new drivers the rules of the road.
The online AAA StartSmart program also offers great resources for parents on how to become effective in-car coaches as well as advice on how to manage their teen’s overall driving privileges.
