Focus on teenage driver safety this week

At the law office of Kennedy, Johnson, Schwab & Roberge, P.C., we know that many hazards confront drivers in Connecticut, from adverse weather conditions to distracted and drunk drivers. We also know that teenagers can be at risk, and they may also cause dangerous situations for anyone sharing the road.

The week of October 21 is designated as National Teen Driver Safety Week, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Motor vehicle accidents are the top cause of death for teenagers in the U.S., above all other types of injury or illness. You might help your teens understand their risks and avoid accidents by reiterating the following safety tips:

• Always wear a seatbelt in the car.
• Don’t be distracted by the cellphone, food, music or friends.
• Never get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or accept a ride from a friend who has been drinking.
• Obey the rules of the road, including not speeding or tailgating, stopping at red lights and stop signs and driving courteously.

When you set a good example driving in front of your children and start letting them know of your expectations before they start learning to drive, you may significantly reduce their risks of getting into a serious accident. However, as you know, you can’t predict or avoid the actions of others on the road. If you or your teen is injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver, you may be able to seek compensation, as our page on car accidents explains.