Staying Safe on the Road as a New Teen Driver

As a new driver, it's normal to feel both excited and nervous. Safety should be your top priority to protect yourself and others on the road. Here's some important information to help you stay safe.

Before Driving

• Put on your seatbelt and make sure all passengers do the same.
• Put your phone away so you won't be tempted to use it while driving.
• Be sure you are well rested. If you are tired or sleepy, rest before driving or ask someone else for a ride.

While Driving

• Avoid distractions, such as reaching for something in the back seat or eating while driving.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs.
• Follow traffic rules, including speed limits and stop signs.
• Scan the road ahead for possible dangers.
• Follow the 3-second rule. This rule is a simple way to maintain a safe following distance while driving. Here's how it works:
  • Choose a marker: As you drive, look ahead and find a fixed point on the roadside, such as a sign.
  • Count seconds: When the vehicle in front of you passes this marker, start counting: "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three."
  • Check your distance: If you reach the marker before you finish counting to three, you're following too closely. Slow down to increase your following distance.
• In poor weather or road conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, increase your following distance to 6 seconds.
• Be extra cautious at night by choosing well-lit roads, slowing down, and increasing your following distance.
• Stay alert and attentive. Be prepared for unexpected situations.

Other Important Reminders

• Make sure you have essential items in your car, such as insurance and registration cards, a first-aid kit, bottled water, nonperishable food, a flashlight, jumper cables, and a blanket.
• Familiarize yourself with basic car care, such as checking tire pressure, changing a tire, and jump-starting the battery.