Summertime safe driving tips

For teen drivers, summertime typically means more driving. Remember to stay safe when you're on the road.

Summer months are some of the most dangerous for teen drivers. You’ll probably be driving more often which means you should be extra careful when you are on the road.

According to the National Highway Safety Administration, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is the deadliest for drivers age 15-20. Teens in the Driver Seat wants to give you some tips on ways to stay safe while you’re on the road this summer.

• Driving at Night – There are more hours of sunlight each day, in the summer, but you still need to be careful driving when it gets dark. Avoid driving at night if you can.
• Distractions – You have more time to talk to your friends in the summer. Make sure you’re not talking or texting while you’re driving. Turn your phone on silent when you get in your car.
• Speeding – Make sure you leave for your destination in plenty of time so you aren’t tempted to speed.
• Seat Belt Use – Make buckling up the first thing you do when you get in the car. You’ll probably be doing more driving since it’s summertime, which increases your chances of getting into a crash.
• Drinking and Driving – Simply put, don’t do it. And remember that driving while you are tired is just as bad as driving with a blood alcohol content of .08 (which is illegal in most states). Get plenty of rest to make sure you’re not driving drowsy.

For more information on the top 5 dangers for teen drivers, check out our major dangers page.