Posted by Colleen O'Toole on Mon, May 16, 2011 @ 02:37 PM
The month of May marks the start of National Youth Traffic Safety Month. The National Organization for Youth Safety (NOYS) encourages programs to educate the youth about safe driving. This time of year and through the summer in particular is when many traffic crashes with young drivers occur.
Distracted driving can be a factor in traffic crashes. Among the distraction are passengers in the car, using a mobile device to talk or text, adjusting the radio, CDs, iPods, or GPS. These distractions can be controlled if drivers adjust the settings of the device, such as a GPS, before embarking on a trip, or to pull over to adjust them. Also, avoid using a mobile device while driving. Almost all calls and texts can wait; if it is an emergency pull over so that you are not endangering yourself and those around you.
Not using a seatbelt is another factor in these traffic crashes. According to the NOYS toolkit, “Seat belt use reduces the risk of death by 45%...One quarter of youth do not use their seat belts – which is the worst non-belt use rate of any age group.” Whether you are a driver or passenger, new driver or experienced, remember the importance of wearing your seat belt.
If you are a young driver, this is a time when you can develop safe habits while driving that will always stay with you. Set an example and encourage your peers to drive safely. If you are an experienced driver, whether you practice safe driving such as wearing seat belts and avoiding distractions, your behavior can influence young drivers. Show your children, young passengers, or others that safe driving skills can prevent traffic crashes. Check out Plymouth Rock’s Teen Safe Driving Tips.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to get a FREE 12-month subscription to the iZUP cell phone app! With iZUP software, incoming and outgoing calls, texts, and emails will be put on hold while you are driving to help eliminate distractions behind the wheel. The first 250 Massachusetts residents who register will receive 12 months of iZUP free! Click here to register and don’t forget to “Like” us on our Facebook Fan Page so you can stay in the know about the happenings at Plymouth Rock Assurance.