With school back in session, it’s an important time to prioritize the safety of everyone on the road, especially young passengers, pedestrians, and first-time teen drivers. According to a recent survey from Mazda USA, 77% of parents find driving with children particularly challenging, with safety concerns, road conditions, and managing distractions topping the list. The scramble to make it to school on time in the morning is a familiar scene – one where the chaos can cause distractions in the car. 

Setting a positive example is the first step toward safer roads. By practicing safe driving habits and staying focused on the road, you protect yourself and passengers and act as a role model to new teen drivers. This article offers a guide to all things safe driving for this school year, from leaving distractions at home to teaching teen drivers, and safety practices for kids walking instead of driving. 

Minimize distractions

When we think of distracted driving, we often associate phone usage as the main cause. However, distracted driving can be caused by anything that diverts your attention from the road. Mental distractions can be just as dangerous as using your phone—from adjusting the radio to mentally replaying a stressful conversation. It’s important to be aware that if you are not able to be mentally present, drivers should pull over and reset.  

To minimize distractions inside the car, use technology like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, reducing the need for hands-on phone use. Technologies like Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) also provide added safety, with features like Automatic Emergency Braking and Blind Spot Monitoring, which are invaluable during rush hours and crowded pick-up and drop-off times. 

By staying vigilant about distractions and using safety technology to your advantage, you’ll help ensure a safer driving experience for both yourself and your passengers, while protecting pedestrians and other road users.

Tips for Teaching Teen Drivers

Effectively teaching teens to drive is more than just vehicle operation and understanding road signs. It’s equally important to teach defensive driving skills and strong safety habits. New drivers don’t have the muscle memory or quick judgment that comes with years of experience being behind the wheel, so it’s critical to emphasize the importance of focusing on the road and being aware of all of your surroundings. 

When considering a vehicle for a new driver, it’s tempting for parents to pass down or buy older vehicles for a first-time driver. Newer vehicles, however, are equipped with modern safety technology that offers an extra layer of protection. Active and pre-crash systems like Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) enhance awareness of the driver’s surroundings, especially if the driver may be caught in a moment of distraction. 

Accompanied by smart technology like Apple CarPlay, distractions can be limited within the vehicle. At the beginning of a drive, new drivers should put their phones away in the glove box or center console to eliminate the temptation of phone usage, using Apple CarPlay to map to a destination, or take a hands-free phone call if necessary. 

Most automakers have spent years focusing on how to improve in-car technology and safety features. It’s also important to teach new drivers to speak up if they feel uncomfortable in someone else’s vehicle. Teach teens to advocate for themselves and others when they notice dangerous driving habits like texting and driving, or turning around to talk to other passengers. 

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

Drivers aren’t always able to see every pedestrian, especially small children, due to distracted driving, poor lighting, and navigating crowded areas. If your kids walk to and from school or wait outside busy pickup areas, it’s important to teach them how to stay alert and visible to drivers. Talk with them about these key safety habits:

• Cross only at designated crosswalks, where drivers are more likely to expect pedestrians.
• Look both ways before crossing, even if the light is green or a crossing guard is present.
  Stand several feet back from the curb while waiting on the sidewalk to avoid being too close to traffic.
  Stay alert and keep heads up, avoiding distractions like phones, toys, or headphones while walking.

By combining safe driving practices, advanced vehicle technology, and pedestrian awareness, families can help create safer streets for everyone this school year.