For decades, the leading cause of death among teens has been car accidents. Whether inexperience, distraction or simply unsafe driving practices contribute, it’s clear that teenage drivers are particularly at risk for car accidents. But recently, teens have started to take a stance against car accidents. Find out how the student body of a South Carolina high school decided to do something about the troubling reputation of teen drivers after two students were killed in a tragic accident that rocked the community.
A Pledge to Drive Safely
Photo by NWABR
Following a harrowing car accident that killed two and injured two more, investigators reported that the teens involved were not wearing seat belts at the time of the accident. While it’s not clear exactly what the outcome would have been if the students were belted in, the fact that they were thrown from their car indicates that a lack of seat belt usage was a primary factor in their deaths. On the Monday following the accident, their friends and classmates wore green ribbons around their arms in memoriam and signed a banner pledging to practice safe driving when they get behind the wheel. This means wearing a seat belt, but also following posted speeds and staying off their phones while operating a vehicle.
What You Can Do
Driving is a huge responsibility, and what we do behind the wheel can have a serious impact on our lives, and the lives of others. Teenage drivers need to be educated on how to drive safely, how to avoid accidents and what to do if a wreck happens.
If you’re concerned about your teen driver, consider having them sign a similar pledge. For tips and facts about teenage drivers, visit the Department of Transportation’s Teen Driving Safety 101 to find out what you can do to keep your teens safe. If you’ve recently been involved in a car accident, contact us today to get the help you need.
Featured image by xenia
