Prevent Teenage Traumatic Brain Injury.

Getting a driver’s license can be an exciting period in the life of a teenager.

Many teens in Western North Carolina and throughout the US are also fortunate to get their first vehicle right around the same time.

If you’re a parent thinking of getting a vehicle for your newly licensed teenage child, there are a few points you should keep in mind when making a choice.

First, teen drivers are not always the safest drivers. In fact, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among 15 to 20-year-olds.

Safe driving may be second nature for adults, but as new drivers, teens need to be mindful of many things when on the road. As a parent, you can help keep them safe by making sure they are driving a vehicle that is best suited for their situation.

Second, although your child might long for a stylish SUV, cool sports car or speedy motorcycle, these types of vehicles are generally not the best choices for teen drivers. Sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are top heavy and can flip over easily when driven carelessly.

In addition sport bikes and ATVs often provide a lower level of protection while also encouraging reckless driving.

Third, another important consideration for parents is the quality of safety features that come with the vehicle. You should look for quality safety items such as:

• an antilock braking system (ABS),
• daytime running lights,
• electronic stability control (ESC),
• side & front airbags
• and adjustable/lockable head restraints

All of the above items can increase a vehicle’s protection level for both teen drivers and their passengers. These features can also help prevent traumatic brain injury accidents from happening.

Used Cars?

A used vehicle can often be a more cost-effective purchase than a used one. However, when making a choice between a new or used vehicle, it’s wise to carefully review the used vehicle’s safety capabilities.

Used vehicles that are too old may not have the same sort of safety features as a new vehicle. Additionally, used vehicles may have safety features or other components that don’t function as well as they should. Before purchasing a used vehicle for your teen, be sure to research and inspect it thoroughly, including brakes, lights and tire pressure.

Fourth, is communication is one of the best ways to keep your teen safe in any vehicle, new, used or shared. Many parents have contracts or agreements with their teens that specify various types of safe driving behavior. These agreements can include anything from the times that the vehicle can be operated to the number of passengers the teen can transport at one time.

Parents should take an active role in reinforcing safe driving practices with their teen driver. With proper training, oversight and vehicle selection, you can help your child avoid car accidents and keep the road of North Carolina safe for all drivers.

Has Your Teenager Been Hurt in An Car Accident?

If you have any questions about an accident involving a loved one, especially a teen and you think we can help, please give us a call at (828) 505-4300. We serve all areas of North Carolina including Asheville, Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham.