Keeping Our Kids Safe Behind the Wheel
It is highly unlikely any of us had a true grasp on the responsibility bestowed upon us when getting behind the wheel at the ripe age of 16. With Max, Ruby and Gus just a blink away from the drivers seat, I find myself frequently thinking of ways to keep my children safe on the roads, and to teach them the importance of keeping others safe as well. Although many parents strive to create good citizens, many do not adequately prepare their kids for the road. I unfortunately have to see the devastating impact all too often.
One second, one accident, one mistake can be the difference of life of serious injury or death. For you or a stranger on the road, our responsibility to be safe and operate a vehicle properly is of the utmost importance.
The CDC reports that teen drivers are THREE TIMES more likely to be in a crash than drivers 20 years of age or older. It’s a simple testament to the times, and unfortunately to all of the distractions we have at our fingertips.
Putting Technology to Work
A teen child’s worst nightmare is a parent’s biggest weapon in today’s day and age. The technology available to us may border on privacy invasion and obsession, but if it keeps our kids and others safe on the roads, then it is doing the trick!
Apps and Technology for Monitoring the Drivers’ Seat
- Technology for speed notifications
- Technology for location and geo tracking
- Ability to set boundaries and parameters on distance
- Near collision alerts
- Harsh driving alerts
- Radio mute and volume control
- Cell phone blocks
From new cars loaded with incredible safety features, to aftermarket solutions, there are safety tools for every budget and every teen driver!
Safety and driving laws – Take the driving course together, and practice what you preach!
Only 55% of teen of drivers are wearing seat belts when other teen passengers are in the car. Many drivers on the road are unaware of commands, cyclist laws and more. Discuss this with your children, and learn together. Explain the seriousness and finality of an accident and that they are not bullet proof or immune.
We are all guilty of a near-miss and that ‘eye opening’ moment, realizing that the outcome could have been incredibly different. Trust me when I tell you, I have seen lives changed in an instant. Take the time and ensure your child and other drivers on the roadways are safe!
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, call my offices immediately. As your Ohio car accident attorney, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For over four decades, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus, Dayton and neighboring communities. You can reach Tim by email at misnylaw.com/ask-tim-a-question/ or call at 877.944.4373.
