Teenagers and safe driving

Teenage drivers have the highest crash risk of any age group. Many think they're invincible. They don't use seatbelts, drive too fast for the conditions, or even drive drunk. The problem is worst for 16-year-olds, who often have limited driving experience and don't appreciate the risks – to themselves and others.

Helpful tips

• Know the law for young drivers, and enforce it.
• Supervise driving practice in all conditions and at day and night.
• Plan practice sessions over a six month period and continue even after they move to a restricted or full licence.
• Keep up the safety messages (although they will likely say they've heard it all before) about using seatbelts and driving responsibly; and about not drink-driving, not using the mobile phone while driving, and not taking passengers on a restricted licence.
• Get them on a defensive driving course (you could even join them).
• To start with, you may want to avoid passengers as this can be distracting.
• When they are allowed to do so, gradually increase the number of passengers so they get used to having others in the car.
• Choose a car for safety not image.
• Be a good role model by using a seatbelt, driving responsibly and not using your mobile phone
• Take every opportunity to talk about good strategies, such as dealing with pressure from friends, not drinking alcohol before driving, and not getting in a car with a driver who has been drinking.
• Offer to drop off and pick up your teenager or suggest they catch a train or bus.