Distracted driving remains a pressing concern, particularly among young drivers, as smartphones and social media distractions continue to increase, and one Banner Medical Center is sharing tips on how to help your teen driver.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2021 alone, distracted driving led to 3,522 fatalities among drivers aged 16-19, with a startling 57% of teenage passenger deaths occurring in vehicles driven by other teenagers. Tracey Fejt, a nurse and Trauma Outreach Coordinator at Banner Desert Medical Center emphasizes the crucial role of educating young drivers about reducing distractions to prevent accidents and injuries. She stresses the importance of consistent reminders to teens about safe driving practices, especially during their learning stages.
To promote safer driving habits, Fejt recommends practical tips such as keeping phones out of reach, limiting passengers to reduce distractions, avoiding eating or drinking while driving, and maintaining focus on the road. Fejt stresses that by instilling these habits early on, young drivers can significantly mitigate the risks associated with distracted driving.
