By Heather Snavely / For The Herald
The statistics are sobering: vehicle-related deaths in Washington surged by 11 percent last year despite a national 3.6 percent decrease. In 2022, the latest year with data, distracted driving contributed to 23 percent of deaths on our roads. Behind these numbers are real stories of families shattered and lives lost to preventable crashes caused by distractions behind the wheel.
Among the most vulnerable are teenagers. Car crashes remain the leading cause of death and injury for teens in Washington, with distractions playing a significant role in these tragic incidents.
Surprisingly, phones are not the leading cause of distractions for teen drivers; it’s their friends. Research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety indicates that when a teen driver has only teen passengers in the vehicle, the fatality rate for all individuals involved in a crash increases by a staggering 51 percent.
Reflecting on my own experiences as a parent, I recall the anxiety and responsibility that came with my children’s newfound independence on the road. New responsibilities meant new rules and expectations. Not just for our kids, but for ourselves.
Practical tips like setting music and navigation before driving, utilizing voice commands, putting your purse or backpack out of reach and not eating in the car can significantly contribute to safer driving.
Encouraging passengers, especially peers, to speak up against distracted driving is one of the most effective ways to prevent it. A study of Washington drivers found that “a passenger asking a driver to stop [using your cell phone] because they don’t feel safe” was most likely to influence drivers against using these devices while driving. This can also create a culture of accountability and safety within teen circles.
Peer influence plays a significant role in shaping teenage behaviors, including driving habits. Peer-led educational programs like the Safe Drive Club are crucial for engaging and educating teens and young adults about the risks of distracted driving. Stories like Ishika Binu’s, who founded the Safe Drive Club after being involved in a crash, provide a relatable perspective that connects with teens and inspires positive changes in driving behavior.
Parents significantly affect their teen’s driving behaviors and must actively participate in their driving education. Open dialogue, clear expectations and leading by example are key to promoting safe driving habits. Let’s set a higher standard for road safety and instill in our youth the importance of undivided attention while driving.
Together we can make the roads safer for everyone.
Heather Snavely is president and chief executive officer of AAA Washington.
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