Teen driving safety for the summer season

Virginia Beach, Va. (WAVY) — From concerts to days at the beach, teen drivers can enjoy many exciting freedoms. With this freedom, the American Automobile Association (AAA) says this also brings additional responsibilities.

AAA spokesperson Holly Dalby told 10 On Your Side that between 2012 and 2021, 141 people were killed in crashes involving teens.

She says many of these accidents are preventable. Many are caused by simple mistakes like using the phone while driving, driving with distracted passengers, and inexperience.

Dalby was shocked to learn that one of the leading causes of teen driving deaths is something as simple as buckling up.

“Speeding and not wearing a seat belt. This one is so shocking, I think,” Dalby explained. “Because when you go through Drivers-Ed (it’s) “Seatbelt, seatbelt, seatbelt.” You don't go anywhere, you don't put the car in drive, without your seat belt.

There are ways, like wearing your seat belt, to keep your teen and other drivers safe this summer. AAA recommends that teens do the following:

1. Study defensive driving techniques
2. Stay focused
3. Keep a steady pace
4. Increase visibility/know your blind spots
5. attach your belt
6. Follow local passenger laws

For teen drivers in Virginia and North Carolina, you can find your local driving laws here.

Driving restrictions for teenagers | Virginia
Driving restrictions for teenagers | North Carolina

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