Distracted driving plays a large role in fatal crashes involving teen drivers.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers under 20 have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes.

Aside from the clear dangers of distracted driving on the road, distracted driving in teens may lead to other dangerous behavior.

Studies led by the American Academy of Pediatrics show that young people who text and drive are more likely to participate in other risky behaviors such as driving under the influence and not wearing their seatbelt.

In 2013, 18% of crashes in which someone was injured involved distracted driving. Although all of those drivers may not have been teens, distracted driving poses a large threat to motorists under 20.

In Georgia, drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using their cell phone while driving, but the law can only do so much. Parents can prevent teens from driving distracted by setting a good example by not driving distracted themselves and educating their children on the dangers of distracted driving.

When driving, please refrain from distractions such as:

• Eating and drinking
• Turning to talk to passengers
• Grooming
• Reading, including maps
• Using a navigation system
• Watching a video
• Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player

If you've been injured by a distracted driver, fill out our free case evaluation.

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