The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office is joining with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration during National Teen Driver Safety Week (October 15-21) to encourage all parents to talk to their teen drivers about the rules of the road. Charlotte County parents are encouraged to sign their teen drivers up for the agency’s Teen Driver Challenge, a “hands on” course that improves driving skills, vehicle awareness, and the development of good driving habits.
“Parents have a very strong influence on their teens, even as they grow older and become more independent,” said Sergeant Michael Marsh, who supervises the School Resource Officers. “The NHTSA website offers parents and caregivers tips and a framework to talk to their teen drivers about risky driving behaviors that can lead to fatal consequences.”
Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death and serious injury for teenagers. The Teen Driver Challenge is part of an effort to reduce traffic crashes involving young drivers, reflecting the Sheriff’s commitment to making Charlotte County roadways the safest in the state. Certified driving instructors administer the program from the Sheriff’s Office Training Unit.
Parents can play an important role in helping ensure their teen drivers take smart steps to stay safe on the road, addressing the most dangerous and deadly driving behaviors for teen drivers: alcohol, lack of seat belt use, distracted and drowsy driving, speeding, and driving with passengers. Surveys show that teens whose parents set firm rules for driving typically engage in less risky driving behaviors and are involved in fewer crashes.
The next Teen Driver Challenge is scheduled for November 4th, 2017. More information on the course can be found at www.ccso.org, or on the CCSO Facebook Page under the Events tab.