Teenagers dream about getting their driver's license and the freedom of driving themselves around. Sadly, they often don't think about the dangers and responsibilities that come along with being a driver. Although passing the Georgia driver's test is exciting for teenagers, new drivers need to be reminded about the harsh realities of the road.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car accidents in Georgia and throughout the country account for 40% of all teenage deaths and are the leading cause of fatalities for teenagers between the ages of 15 and 20.

These astonishing statistics give parents of new drivers a reason to teach their teens not only what they need to know to in order to pass the driving test, but how to be smart, safe drivers so that they will avoid being involved in Dunwoody car accidents.

Five tips for parents to help reduce your teen's risk of being involved in a Dunwoody crash:
  • Know the road rules and Georgia's driving laws. Parents need a refresher from time to time on the state driving laws. This will help you talk with your child about the rules of the road.
  • Shop for cars. Review the safety ratings on vehicles before purchasing one for your teen. Make sure there are airbags in the car for optimal safety.
  • Be a role model of the behavior you want your teen to display. Do not speed, run yellow lights, tailgate, scream at other drivers, drive recklessly, weave in and out of traffic, talk on your cell phone, or text while driving. Remember, you are teaching your teen to drive by example.
  • Set rules for your teen driver. Limit the amount of people that can ride with your teenager and enforce a curfew. 
  • Talk with your teen about road dangers. Show them recent news stories and statistics involving teen accidents. Explain to them that their instincts are still being developed, and they should never use their cell phones behind the wheel.

It is important to talk with your teen about the dangers of texting and driving, drinking and driving, eating at the wheel, speeding, playing loud music while driving, or any other form of distracted driving.

If you find out that your teenager broke any of the road rules, you should revoke their driving privileges until they have learned their lesson that driving is a privilege and not a right.

If your teenager was injured in a Dunwoody car crash in Georgia, please call a knowledgeable Dunwoody auto accident attorney at The Dover Law Firm at 1.770.518.1133 for a free legal consultation today.