PennDOT Offers Tips for Teens and Parents for Prom, Graduation

CLEARFIELD - As end-of-the-school-year festivities are rapidly approaching, PennDOT reminds young drivers to use sound judgment and extra caution each time they climb in a vehicle.

PennDOT District 2’s nine-county area has experienced an increase in crashes involving young drivers already this year.

“One of PennDOT’s top priorities is keeping our roadways safe,” said PennDOT District 2 Executive Kevin Kline. “With prom and graduation season upon us, PennDOT reminds students to celebrate safely and avoid dangerous driving behaviors.”

Avoiding behaviors such as speeding and drinking and driving are extremely important in keeping young, inexperienced drivers safe. Practicing safe driving habits will help ensure that this exciting time of year is a happy one worth celebrating. PennDOT offers these tips to parents and teens:

Tips for Teenagers

• Always wear your seat belt, whether you’re the driver or the passenger.
• Obey the speed limit. Aggressive driving, especially speeding, is a major contributing factor in crashes. Speeding gives you less time to react to changing circumstances.
• Don’t drink and drive. Drinking under the age of 21 is illegal.
• Don’t use your cell phone, eat or drink while driving. These are all distractions that take your attention away from driving.
• Plan ahead. Know where you are going and get directions.
• Leave early and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.

Tips for Parents

• Set a good driving example.
• Know the rules of the road.
• Make sure your vehicle is safe and well-maintained.
• Limit the number of passengers.
• Enforce a curfew.
• Ride with your teen occasionally to monitor his or her driving skills.