SACRAMENTO,
Calif. – Teen drivers can face challenges with every new experience. During National Teen Driver Safety Week,
October 18-24, 2020, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) joins the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration to encourage parents and guardians to discuss
driver safety with their young drivers.
Motor
vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the United States,
ahead of any type of injury, disease, or violence. According to preliminary data from the CHP’s
Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, 255 people in California were
killed last year in crashes involving drivers aged 15-19.
“Teen
drivers do not have the experience needed when confronted with new challenges
on the road. This can create a potential
danger to themselves and others,” CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said. “Through open communication and by setting an
example with their own good driving habits, parents and guardians can help keep
their young drivers safe.”
Discussions
about safe driving include avoiding distractions such as cell phones, using
seat belts, obeying speed limits, not driving impaired, and limiting the number
of passengers. Parents and guardians
must be aware that their own driving behavior and following the same rules is
as important as any conversation they may have with their teen.
The CHP
provides education to help keep teen drivers alive in its Start Smart course, offered by all CHP offices free of charge. Participating in Start Smart will help parents and guardians learn how to
effectively discuss the importance of driving safely with their young drivers. Start
Smart also teaches driver responsibility, the Graduated Driver License
program, and collision-avoidance techniques.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Start
Smart classes are being held online.
Contact your local CHP Area office for information on how to enroll.
The
mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and
Security.
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