03/08/03 - East Texas
Handing Over The Keys To Your Teenager Is A Tough Decision

It might be the first big step towards independence in a teenager's life, but according to a recent survey, putting a teenager behind the wheel is a nerve-racking time for a parent. In fact, 51% of parents say that even more than drugs, alcohol, or teen pregnancy, they worry the most about their teenager's driving habits.

"With things like pregnancy, drugs, alcohol, things like that the kid's have total control, but with driving you're not only worried about them but about the other people on the road," said Ruth Waller.

According to www.ipromiseprogram.com, more than 8,000 teenagers are killed each year in car accidents, and another 400,000 are injured. And driving instructors say without the proper instruction, handing the keys over to a teenager could be like handing them a loaded gun.

"Cell phones and cd players these days make it a lot easier for kids to get distracted behind the wheel," said driving instructor Marcia Cox.

Not all parents worry about their teens driving. Olgui Urso says her 16-year-old son is one of the best drivers she knows.

"If he's going somewhere with friends and he's driving, I generally feel a lot better about wherever they're going that they'll get there safe," said Urso.

Having confidence in her teen's driving helps put Olgui's mind at ease.

For more information on ways to keep your teen safe while driving and teach them to better driving skills click here.

 

Gary Direnfeld, MSW, Executive Director
I Promise Program Inc.
20
Suter Crescent,
Dundas, Ontario, Canada
L9H 6R5


(905) 628-4847
gary123@sympatico.ca
www.ipromiseprogram.com