It’s prom and graduation season and who doesn’t like a good party? Parents have you had the talk with your kids? The talk about drinking and driving, driving while distracted, or excessive speeding. What happens in an instant could affect their lives forever.
North Carolina was among the states that saw a significant jump in teen car accident deaths. For the first time in eight years, there was an increase in teenage deaths due to car accidents during the first half of 2011. Deaths for 16- and 17-year-old drivers increased 11 percent during the first half of last year rising from 190 to 211 deaths.
On my way to the gym, I noticed one of my neighbors teenage sons speeding in and out of traffic and not using his turn signals. He zipped behind me and nearly rear ended my car. Now, if his parents knew of his reckless driving habits, I sure they would take away the keys. I’m debating whether to tell his parents or have a one on one discussion with him.
Parents talk to your kids and inform them that driving recklessly and irresponsibly could be deadly. Set the example, Children emulate who they respect. If you drive at excessive speeds with your teenagers in the car, why shouldn’t they? Obey the law, respect the road and other drivers. Make it clear moving violations are unacceptable and that there will be serious consequences. Set the consequence now as a preventive measure and stick to it.
