How to Avoid Teen Catastrophe Behind the Wheel

The beginning of summer should be a happy time filled with graduation parties, high school proms, and other celebratory events that will forever remain etched in teenagers’ memories. But sadly, that isn’t always the case. You can probably imagine why.

Alcohol, cell phone distractions, inexperience behind the wheel, and even normal exuberant teen behavior can sometimes result in accidents that end in life-altering injuries or even, as in this awful Michigan crash that recently happened, tragic death. In fact, just a few days ago, Michigan was named the most dangerous state in America for teen drivers.

So how can parents help teen drivers avoid such devastating incidents? Well, here are some smart, time-tested ideas that will hopefully let everyone more safely enjoy this beautiful and memorable time of year together.

Tips for Keeping Teen Drivers Safe

 
Use rideshare services. Teens certainly relish their newfound independence, but parents or guardians can help keep them safe by encouraging the usage of rideshare apps. Uber recently announced it would begin providing transportation to teen riders.  This way, your teen (and their friends) can safely enjoy the services of a more experienced driver while interacting with each other, carefree, on the way to any variety of summery social engagements. While this option may not be the least expensive isn’t your child’s life priceless?

Minimize the number of people in party-going vehicles. Michigan law already limits inexperienced drivers to just one passenger. Observe that restriction to reduce the chances of your child becoming involved in a mass-casualty collision. Specifically, the law states that teens with Level 2 Intermediate Licenses “Shall not operate a motor vehicle at any time with more than 1 passenger in the vehicle who is less than 21 years of age except: when the additional passengers are immediate family members; when driving to or from or in the course of employment; while going to or from an authorized activity; or when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian or a licensed driver 21 years of age or older designated by the parent or legal guardian.”

Make cell phones inaccessible while driving. Teens with restricted driver’s licenses are already prohibited from using their phones while behind the wheel in Michigan. Insist that your child follows that rule, and if they fail to do so, consider taking away the car keys (and perhaps the cell phone, too)!

Don’t allow teens to drive after permitted hours. State law prohibits teens from operating a motor vehicle after 10 p.m. through the following 5 a.m. except when going to or from work, traveling to an authorized activity, or when accompanied by parents, guardians, or another licensed driver over age 21 who’s been authorized by the teen’s parents or guardians. This overnight driving curfew is in place for a reason: the CDC reports that fatal night-time crashes among teen drivers are around three times higher than for adult drivers.

If your teen isn’t yet a responsible driver, you have the right to keep them safe by restricting their license. Michigan law provides parents/guardians with the option of “requesting in writing that the teen driver remain at Level 2 and not automatically advance to Level 3 at age 17.” Note that a parental request for this restriction must be made at least 30 days before the teen’s 17th birthday. We suggest contacting the local Secretary of State office for more information if this situation applies to your child.

Remind teens of their added responsibilities when they “graduate” to a Level 3 License. At 17, young drivers can receive full driving privileges with a Level 3 license. To do so, the teen must have held a Level 2 License for six months; must be violation- and suspension-free; and mustn’t have had any at-fault crashes for 12 consecutive months prior to applying for the Level 3 License. Even so, parents can withhold their approval and may – if needed – restrict or cancel a teen’s Level 3 License. If you believe your child isn’t yet ready to drive safely and responsibly, it’s your parental right to withhold their license until age 18. For details on Michigan’s teen graduated licensing rules and regulations, the state has published a complete guide for parents.

Don’t ever provide your kids (or their friends) with alcohol. It isn’t “cool” to be the irresponsible parent who allows other people’s kids to drink. In fact, it’s illegal in Michigan, and could subject you to significant criminal and civil penalties. Set a good example. Drink responsibly, or not at all, and help your child and their friends reach adulthood safely. And, if you can’t keep it under lock and key, at least keep track of your liquor supply to be sure it isn’t being tapped without your knowledge or permission.

 
What Happens if My Teen Driver or a Passenger Gets Injured in an Accident?

After dealing with the immediate aftermath of the accident, call Mike Morse Law Firm at your earliest opportunity. We’ll do whatever we can to help you seek compensation from the person whose careless, reckless, or negligent actions led to your child’s pain and suffering. We’ll also offer a sympathetic ear when you need one. After all, many of us have kids, too. So, call us at 855-MIKE-WINS (855-645-3946) or contact us online right away. You’ll feel better when you have us on your side – and by your side.

Content checked by Mike Morse, personal injury attorney with Mike Morse Injury Law Firm. Mike Morse is the founder of Mike Morse Law Firm, the largest personal injury law firm in Michigan. Since being founded in 1995, Mike Morse Law Firm has grown to over 200 employees, served 40,000 clients, and collected more than $1.5 billion for victims of auto, truck and motorcycle accidents. The main office is in Southfield, MI but you can also find us in Detroit, Sterling Heights and many other locations.