National Teen Driver Safety Week is Oct 20-26. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, data indicates that traffic crashes are a leading cause of death for 15-20-year-olds.

New teen drivers are gaining experience behind the wheel, which increases the chance of dangerous situations for the teen and other roadway users around them.

Here are 5 key Rules for the Road:

1. Always wear your seatbelt and require that all of your passengers do the same.

2. Drive at a safe speed that reflects the posted maximum speed limit AND the current road conditions

3. Limit distractions – that is anything that takes your hands of the wheel, your eyes off the road, or your mind off the task of driving.

4. Limit the number of passengers in the vehicle. The more passengers in the vehicle, the more likely you are to be in a fatal crash.

5. Never drive impaired. That includes alcohol, drugs, or medications.

If you have a teen driver in your life, help them make smart choices to stay safe on the road by discussing risky driving behaviors and their consequences.
This message is brought to you by Safe Kids PA Lycoming County Partner and the Lycoming County Health Improvement Coalition.