What can we do to stop 6,000 deaths annually? Today Starts Teen Safety Driving Week.
Last year 6,205 people were involved in a teen driving accident…and they died. Yes we should feel sorry for those whose lives were cut short – think of those who might have been our leader to bring world peace, a doctor, scientist, or artist. Perhaps it is our fault for not putting more emphasis on teaching our children what is acceptable behavior when piloting 4,000 pounds of metal down our highways. Think what we, as citizens, would ask our government to do if 6,000 people died in plane crashes last year. I think that driving is the last responsibility we give our children; it is their final ticket to independence. We should make certain they truly understand how deadly this responsibility can be. Did you take sharp knives away from them when they were young?
The National Safety Council (NSC) names June “National Safety Month.” While every month should be about safety, this designation does encourage us to think a bit more about the steps we take to ensure we’re making safe choices at home, at the job and on the roads.
Specifically, NSC emphasizes “Teen Driving Safety” the week of June 7, and for good reason. Vehicle crashes are the leading causes of death and injury for U.S. teens between ages 15 and 19.
So Volvo is wondering: Have you had “the talk” with your teen? And, we don’t mean that “the talk” (which is none of our business). We mean the talk about driving safely (which is our business).
No texting.
No phone calls.
No drinking.
Always wear a seatbelt.
Stay focused on driving when friends are with you.
Their job is to drive with total concentration and respect for what is entrusted in them.
Teen driving safety is a talk that’s just as serious as the other talk. Have you had it? How did you present it to your child? Did you provide an ultimatum? How did they respond? Are there tips you can provide other parents? Please share below.
