Texting is a great way to stay in touch with the people you know. However, texting while driving is a good way to find yourself in a car accident. Every year, thousands of teens lose their lives because of texting while driving. While any fatality is tragic, those that could have been very easily avoided seem even worse. A single mistake can cost a driver and their passengers their lives, so is sending that text message really worth it? As a parent, you know it’s not, but as a new driver, it may be hard to realize the potential risks taken each time your child gets behind the wheel.

Education is Very Important

Talk to your child and explain why texting while driving is so dangerous. Statistics have proven that a teenager that is busy texting will have the reaction time of an elderly individual over the age of 70. Any seasoned driver knows that it takes less than a second to be distracted long enough to get into an accident. As a parent, it may be easy to think that you can tell your child what to do and they will listen. The reality is, they have to truly understand what the problem is and why it could kill them to guarantee they will listen. Once your child leaves the safety of home, they are on their own and must make many of the same decisions that an adult makes.

Extra Safety with Driver Technology

Another helpful tool for parents is to purchase a car that includes safety features that keep your teen’s attention on the road. Warnings and alarms that alert the driver to various speeds or lane changes can help remind them that driving must be their main focus at the moment. Some parents even choose to install cell phone jammers or blockers. These prevent cell phone use while in the vehicle. Not all cars have them, but they can be installed.

Keep your teen aware of the dangers and educated on the best practices while behind the wheel. Many people do not realize that a single text message could cost someone their life. This problem is easily prevented through education and awareness.