Teen drivers are more likely to be involved in fatal crashes than drivers over age 20. Many of these accidents stem from preventable mistakes that young drivers make daily. By understanding the most common risks, you can start meaningful conversations with your teen about road safety.
Texting while driving
Even a moment of distraction can have serious consequences. New Jersey law strictly prohibits using a handheld cell phone while driving. This includes texting, browsing and calling without a hands-free device.
For first-time offenses, your child may face fines between $200 and $400. Penalties increase with subsequent violations.
Driving with too many passengers
Having multiple passengers can significantly increase distractions for young drivers. To reduce this risk, New Jersey’s graduated driver license (GDL) program limits how many passengers teens can carry.
During the first year with a probationary license, only one additional passenger is allowed. After this initial period, your teen can have up to two additional passengers. These restrictions may not apply when a parent or guardian is present in the vehicle.
Speeding in school and residential areas
Inexperience can make it difficult to judge how quickly dangerous situations develop at higher speeds. New Jersey enforces strict speed limits, especially in school and residential zones.
Violations may result in fines, points on your teen’s license and even suspension. Higher speeds also reduce reaction time and increase the severity of injuries in a crash.
Ignoring the seat belt law
Seat belts save lives in every type of collision, yet some teens treat them as optional. New Jersey law requires drivers and passengers to wear seat belts at all times.
The risk of serious injury increases without one. In fact, unbuckled occupants are far more likely to be ejected during a crash. Buckling up takes only seconds but can make a life-saving difference for your teen.
Driving during restricted hours
Late-night driving presents heightened dangers for inexperienced drivers. The GDL program prohibits teens with provisional licenses from driving between 11:01 PM and 5:00 AM.
This restriction addresses increased accident risk due to fatigue and higher likelihood of encountering impaired drivers. Violating curfew laws may result in license suspension for your teen.
Keeping your teen safe on the road
Road safety depends on developing responsible driving habits from the start. Talking openly with your child about these dangerous behaviors may help set clear expectations and protect them from fatal accidents.
