End of the Year Safety
At the end of the school year, there are many celebrations and events filling up everyone's calendars. This is an important time for everyone to take a step back and be aware of all that is going on. This is a moment for everyone to have fun, but more importantly, to be safe.
Alongside school ending, summer break is arriving. This gives teenagers and younger students free time and several opportunities to be outside of the house. Those that can drive can go to more places and take part in more activities. With that, according to the US Department of Transportation, “The “100 Deadliest Day is the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal teen crashes increase dramatically.” Many companies
Teenage drivers have a higher rate of deadly crashes for many reasons. These crashes could be due to a lack of experience, a lack of responsibility, or a lack of driver attention. Whatever the case may be, there are many things that can be done to help prevent these incidents.
When in a car, it is important for everyone to wear a seatbelt. According to cdc.gov, “...seat belts reduce the risk of death by 45% and cut the risk of serious injury by 50%.” The simple action of putting on your seatbelt could potentially save your life. Furthermore, it is illegal in the state of Kentucky to ride in a car without a seatbelt.
Continuing, as students and teenagers attend these celebrations and parties, it is important to remember to never, no matter the circumstances, drink and drive. According to scramsystems.com. “...June, July, and August see 50% more drunk driving deaths among teenagers than any other time of the year.” The rates for deadly crashes for teens are already high and adding alcohol will only make them higher. The cdc.gov states, “1 in 5 teen drivers involved in fatal crashes had some alcohol in their system in 2010.”
To further help prevent tragic incidents, teenage drivers should prioritize being aware. This includes frequently checking mirrors and scanning the area around you. It is encouraged when driving to check the area ahead of you to avoid highway hypnosis, a mental state in which drivers can drive somewhere as expected and end up with no recollection of having done so. Though it is said time and time again, it is still never encouraged to check your phone while driving. House Bill 415 prohibits drivers of all ages from texting while driving. For drivers under 18, according to transportation.ky.gov, “...no use of personal communication devices is allowed while the vehicle is in motion.” When driving, you can put your phone in the glove compartment or passenger seat. It should not be accessed till the vehicle is not in motion.
Safety among teen drivers is an important matter at hand. As you see yourself driving around at the end of this school year, this summer, or in your near future, remember to be aware of others and your surroundings.
