We have all seen numerous horror stories where teens died because they took their eyes off the road for a split second to check Snapchat or reply to a text. Texting while driving is a growing trend in society and accounts for more than 3,000 deaths a year. There can be many reasons why teenagers text and drive, however parents play a big role in this epidemic.

Parents are supposed to model safe driving skills, however most of us have probably seen our parents engage in distracted driving. It sets a bad example for those of us who are just starting to drive and unfamiliar with the rules of the road as it employs the “don’t do what I do, do what I say” model which does not send a good message.

If a young driver or aspiring driver witnesses a parent checking their phone while driving, it’s not a surprise their children do the same thing at a rate of 78 percent.

Parents need to model safe driving behaviors by not using their cell phones, including at stop lights and demonstrate a zero tolerance policy for themselves and their teens’ cell phone use while driving.

To avoid the temptation of texting and driving, turn your phone on silent, put your phone out of reach or download an app that prevents you from texting and driving. Teens should know better and so should their parents.

Sincerely,

Sydney