888-765-5400Teenaged Drivers – What you Should Know
As a licensed agent for Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, I am almost always thinking about insurance and other health related issues. This week, however, my first born started Driver’s Ed, making thoughts of health and accident insurance exponentially more personal as visions of my teenage son behind the wheel of a car have my heart palpitating and my blood pressure on the rise. Somehow, I doubt I’m the only parent out there who feels this way and unfortunately, our fears are well-founded. According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, it’s a fact: teenage driver’s account for more auto accidents than any other age group.
Not only does this fact have me double checking my son’s health insurance policy to see that he has enough coverage, it also has me researching everything I can find regarding safety tips for teenaged drivers. What I realized as I researched, however, is that these tips aren’t just for teens. Many adults such as myself, who have been driving for years still need a gentle reminder that safe driving is a top priority.
The Department of Motor Vehicles recommends the following safety tips for teenaged drivers:
1. Turn off your cell phone: Studies indicate that using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle is the equivalent of driving drunk! Using a cell phone impairs your ability to focus on the important task of driving safely. In fact, research shows that texting while driving can cause a loss of focus on the road for almost 5 seconds, which is plenty of time for an accident to occur. Even when you are stopped, it is imperative that you maintain your focus on the road and be aware of any important developments that can affect you, your passengers or your vehicle. Furthermore, many states are creating laws regarding cell phone use and texting and oftentimes, younger drivers face stiffer penalties. Take some time to review the North Carolina law regarding cell phone use and driving.
2. Turn on your headlights: Using your headlights increases your visibility and also helps other drivers see that you are coming. Especially in the early morning and at dusk when it may not appear dark, your headlights can make a huge difference when it comes to your vehicle being visible on the road.
3. Obey the speed limit: Speeding is one of the main contributors to teen accidents and fatalities. Freeways or roads with heavy traffic can be especially difficult for young and inexperienced drivers. Even if you feel like cars are flying past you, it is important that you maintain the posted speed limit. Don’t feel pressure to “keep up with traffic.” A safe speed helps ensure your safety if an accident does occur and also protects you from costly traffic tickets that can drive up the cost of your auto insurance.
4. Limit distractions: Simple things such as eating, drinking, choosing a radio station, or applying make-up while driving can lead to disastrous outcomes. Even playing loud music can be an unnecessary and costly distraction. It is important that you keep your eyes and ears alert for emergency vehicles and sirens as well as other vehicles, pedestrians or road maintenance crews. As an inexperienced driver, you are more apt to lose control of your car and even minor distractions can increase the chances that you will not notice an impending danger or notice it too late.
5. Drive alone or with a parent: Having even one other teen or child passenger in your vehicle can almost double the risk of you being involved in a car accident. Adding additional teens or children increases this risk exponentially. Until you have gained some experience behind the wheel, drive alone or with your parents.
6. Drive defensively: As in sports, defense is the best offense. Always pay attention to the traffic around you – in front, behind and beside. Notice turn lanes and road shoulders that might allow you an avenue of escape should you be faced with imminent danger. Stay at least one full car length behind the car in front of you to allow for a reasonable buffer zone and increase that distance if you are driving at faster speeds.
7. Drive a safe vehicle: If at all possible, drive a safe car with the latest safety equipment such as air-bags and electronic stability control. Find one with a good crash safety record. Most importantly, use the safety equipment provided. Lock your doors. Wear your seat belt. Turn on your headlights. All of these features are in place for a reason – to keep you safe!
Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina loves teenagers and encourages safe driving for all age groups! The bottom line is that driving is much like everything else in life. Nothing compares to experience. By practicing the above tips, however, you can reduce the risk of car accidents and increase the odds that you won’t become another teenaged driving statistic. Make your parents rest a little easier and keep yourself as safe as possible as you become the next generation of licensed drivers!
For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents. Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.