Fact: Teen drivers are nearly four times as likely to crash when on the road. Below are some of the most common mistakes made by teen drivers:

Peer Pressure – friends encouraging the driver to turn up the music, or violate other family rules, to distract the driver.

Drinking and Driving – In 2013, 17 percent of drivers ages 16-20 were involved in fatal car crashes, due to intoxication. Do not drink and drive!

Distractions – Distractions while driving are more than just cell phones. Talking to passengers, using navigation systems, and applying makeup while driving all count as distractions.

Failure to wear a seatbelt – Seatbelts save an estimated 12,174 lives each year. 55 percent of teens killed in car crashes were not wearing seat belts. Buckle up! It is the law!

Underestimating the risks that come with driving – Teens often underestimate the risks and responsibilities that come with getting behind the wheel, making them feel invincible. This can lead to careless, dangerous mistakes.

Driving at night – A teen driver’s chance of being involved in a deadly car crash doubles, when they travel at night. This can be due to limited visibility and other dangers on the road.

Having multiple passengers – When your teen drives with multiple passengers in their car, their risk of being involved in a car crash increases 44% due to possible increased distractions, caused by the passengers.

Loud Music – “Cranking up the tunes” and adjusting the radio can cause major distractions while driving.

Overestimating their driving abilities – Overestimating their driving abilities, such as what speed they are comfortable at, as well as maneuvering on the road, can be dangerous to them and other drivers.

Fast or reckless driving – Going too fast, tailgating, and road rage are often primary factor in teen crashes.

Although these facts may seem unfortunate, talk to your son or daughter about these dangers before this upcoming winter driving season. It is Important to protect them and others when they are behind the wheel.

If you have any further questions regarding the information provided or you have a new teen driver that you are looking to insure, give C.H. Edwards a call today at 516-249-5200 for a free no obligation quote for the whole family! Please visit our website at www.chedwards.net.

Let us help you get covered! Please drive safely.

Written by: Amanda Haase