Schools out for Summer a classic rock song by Alice Cooper shouts about being bored and having no intelligence, while these lyrics may sound harsh today, they are very appropriate when it comes to describing the deadliest driving time for teens.

Each year a disproportionate number of teen driving deaths occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Joy riding (bored)is one cause for this increase. During the school year teen drivers tend to be driving to a specific event or destination. Graduation parties abound this time of year and poor decisions regarding the use of drugs and alcohol may occur (having no intelligence). These illegal and risky behaviors increase the chances of being involved in a fatal car crash. According to the CDC 17% of drivers ages 15–20 who were involved in fatal motor vehicle crashes had a BAC of 0.08% or higher—a level that is illegal for adults in all U.S.

These numbers seem staggering but what is a parent/guardian to do?

1. Create a parent/teen driving contract.
2. Use a tracking app like Boomerang to create a Geofence. If your teen’s cell phone goes beyond the fence you are notified.
3. Changing habits through additional education. Our partners at Central Insurance have partnered with ADEPT driving and offer the teen SMART Driver Safety Program. Another similar program is B.R.A.K.E.S-Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe. This program teaches teens to be more conscientious behind the wheel and provides practical skills to assist you in controlling a vehicle in treacherous road conditions.
4. As a parent set an excellent example; always wear your seatbelt, don’t text and drive and do not operate a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Auto insurance is expensive and premiums will continue to rise as losses continue to pile up at a staggering rate. If you can do your part to reduce loss but more importantly save lives your school work has paid off.

If you are interested the Trusted Choice Insurance Agents at Richey Barrett would be happy to review your personal auto policy to ensure you are properly covered against loss.