(WISCONSIN) A teen driver is involved in a crash every 28 minutes in Wisconsin. That’s why the state’s transportation department is preparing teen drivers for the road ahead.
DOT officials say inexperience, distractions, and speed often contribute to these crashes. They note that safe driving conversations start while kids are still in the backseat and encourage parents to be a model for safe driving.
In 2024, teen drivers were involved in nearly 19,000 crashes resulting in 70 deaths and over 57-hundred injuries. There were 24 teenage drivers killed.
The state patrol’s law of the month provides guidance for parents and teens to promote safety on the road.
Officials with the state patrol say parents and caregivers play an important role in helping teens gain the experience and confidence they need to be a good driver. They say have conversations with kids about the importance of safe driving and be clear on the rules:
- Never drive impaired. Wisconsin law requires absolute sobriety for drivers under age 21. Be sure to also remind teens of the dangers of riding with someone who is impaired.
- Buckle up. Seat belt use is one of the easiest ways to stay safe in a crash. Whether a driver or passenger, seat belts save lives and they are required by law.
- Avoid distractions. Anything that takes your eyes off the road can be a distraction, especially cell phones. Cell phone use is banned for drivers with probationary licenses and instructional permits, except to report an emergency. If needed, pull over to a safe location when calling to report an emergency.
- Follow the speed limit. Traffic crashes are more dangerous when they involve excessive speed. Speeding is one of the main contributing factors for crashes in Wisconsin.
