Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. Some of the most common risk factors for teen driving are speed, seat belt use, and distraction. Inexperience in driving leads to poor decision making and underestimating risk.

Some simple things teens can do to prevent crashes and injuries are to reduce their speed by following posted speed limits, always wear a seat belt, and avoid distractions in the vehicle. Distractions can be avoided by adjusting radio stations, heat controls, and mirrors prior to getting on the road. Cell phones should be placed somewhere in the vehicle where drivers are not tempted to look at them or placed in Do Not Disturb mode.

Seat Belt use can increase the chances of surviving a crash by up to 50%. That said every passenger in the vehicle should be belted as well as the driver. Any unbelted individual in a vehicle becomes a projectile in a crash and risks injuring other passengers and themselves.

Slow down, eyes up, phone down, buckle up.

This message is brought to you by Safe Kids PA Lycoming County Partner, the Lycoming County Health Improvement Coalition.