One of the first things drivers are taught is how to manage their speed. While this is largely due to speed limits on every road, it also serves the benefit of reducing the severity of injuries in motor vehicle accidents. Unfortunately, though, a staggering number of young drivers are killed every year in speed-related crashes. According to the National Safety Council, nearly one-third of teen driving fatalities result from speeding.
What Makes Speeding Dangerous?
Speeding is especially dangerous for teens because they are still in the process of learning how to drive and are more prone to taking risks and making mistakes. Teens may think that if they just push the pedal a little bit harder, they can beat the light or make it to their destination faster. What they don't realize is that going over the speed limit increases their chances of losing control in an otherwise manageable situation.
At higher speeds, it can take a vehicle longer to stop, making it difficult for teens (or any driver) to react quickly enough if something unexpected happens on the road. Speeding also makes it more likely for a crash to occur if a teen is weaving in and out of traffic, as higher speeds increase the risk of collisions.
What Parents Can Do When Teaching Their Kids to Drive
Parents can play an important role in helping their teens recognize why speeding is so dangerous and instilling good driving habits. One of the best ways to do so is by modeling these behaviors from a young age. Additionally, parents can:
- Enroll their child in a defensive driving course.
- Talk to them about the importance of obeying speed limits.
- Set and enforce a good example by modeling responsible driving habits.
- Discuss with their teen the consequences of speeding, such as tickets, higher insurance premiums, or even suspension of their driver's license.
- Remind them that they may not always be able to anticipate obstacles.
- Explain that speeding can impact their ability to react in an emergency situation.
The risks of speed-related crashes among teens are too high, and parents have a responsibility to ensure their children understand the dangers of driving over the speed limit. By teaching them safe driving practices from a young age and talking to them regularly about the consequences of speeding, parents can help reduce the number of teen fatalities on the road.
Negligent actions on the road, such as speeding, should never be tolerated - especially when they put others’ lives at risk. Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C. can help you pursue compensation against a motorist who caused you harm. Call (254) 938-6885 to request a free consultation today.