National Teen Driver Safety Week coming up

JACKSON, Tenn. — One organization is spreading awareness in recognition of Teen Driver Safety Week.

An average of 7 teens die every day in traffic crashes nationwide. 56% of teen passenger deaths occurred in vehicles driven by another teen. Among passengers deaths for all ages, 15% happened with a teen behind the wheel. In fatal speed-related crashes with teen drivers, the risk increases exponentially with each additional teen passenger in the car.

Students Against Destructive Decisions urges parents to sit down and talk with their child about safe driving.

“So, be aware all the time, don’t get on your phone even if you’re a new driver and you think you’ve got everything under control, just be cautious of everything,” said Laurel-Ann Hathaway.

Hattaway says putting your phone on ‘do not disturb’ is the best way to limit distractions.

Teen driving fatalities reportedly rose as much as 20% in some states last year.

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