As summer approaches, the road becomes an increasingly dangerous place to be, especially if you’re a teen driver. But law enforcement officials in Dearborn, Michigan are determined to keep their teen drivers, and all other road users, safe this summer with their Safe Driving Initiative campaign launched at the end of May.
The campaign focuses particularly on distracted driving, a common dangerous driving behavior among teens and young adults. According to Police Chief Ronald Haddad, drivers in their 20s account for up to 27% of distracted drivers in fatal car crashes.
To send a strong message to parents and teens about the dangers of distracted driving and to encourage drivers to put away their phones, focus on the road, and develop other good driving habits, the Dearborn Police Department (DPD) kicked off the campaign by displaying a smashed vehicle on their lawn during the kick off event. The DPD will keep the car on display throughout the summer in the hope that it will make drivers think twice about texting or talking on the phone while driving.
Ford Motor Co. Driving Skills for Life Program Manager Jim Graham also attended the kick off event and gave teen drivers a few safe driving tips that can help prevent a crash and keep them safe on the road this summer:
- Avoid distractions, especially cellphones, while driving.
- Use your seat belt every time you drive or ride in a car. A seat belt is the best way to defend yourself against unsafe drivers.
- Stay under the posted speed limit and slow down by 5 mph. By slowing down a bit, you can better avoid going over the speed limit. It also makes a difference in reaction time.
- Limit your number of passengers. According to Graham, passengers, especially teen passengers, can be a huge distraction for teen drivers.
Car Breathalyzer Help encourages all drivers in Dearborn, Michigan and throughout the U.S. tol follow these safe driving behaviors while also remembering not to drink and drive. If you find yourself impaired and did not plan ahead, call a cab, take the bus, or ask a nearby sober friend or family member for a ride.