AAA and PennDOT teaming up to keep teenage drivers safe

PITTSBURGH — Two big initiatives focused on the safety of young people are happening this week.

It’s National Teen Driver Safety Week (Oct. 15-21) and National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week (Oct. 16-22).

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States. According to NHTSA, in 2016 alone, more than 3,500 people lost their lives in car crashes involving a teen driver.

AAA and PennDOT are teaming up to bring awareness to the greatest dangers for teenaged drivers:

• Alcohol
• Not wearing a seat belt
• Speeding
• Distracted and drowsy driving

Talking to other teenagers and cellphone are the top distractions for teens.

Alcohol awareness is also important to discuss when it comes to teen driver safety.

According to data from PennDOT, nearly 12 percent of drivers aged 15 to 20 involved in deadly crashes in 2016 had been drinking.

Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about the dangers of drinking and driving, and help guide their decision-making when their parents are not around.

RESOURCES:

• PennDOT Safe Travel Information
• AAA Teen Driving Safety

Cox Media Group