The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) recognizes National Teen Driver Safety Week, which runs until Oct. 21. While teen drivers (ages 15 – 19) represent approximately five percent of licensed drivers, they account for more than 11 percent of crashes in Florida.
Parents, family members and friends of teen drivers are encouraged to communicate what safe driving looks like and how to practice it daily. Plant City Police Department Captain Robert McClellan shares a few messages about safe driving practices. “The best advice I can give young drivers is that while they’re behind the wheel make sure that’s the only thing they’re focused on, their phones can wait until they get to their destination,” he said. “It’s also important to give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, speeding and distracted driving not only puts you at risk but others at risk as well.”
Teens should also be aware of the licenses’ limitations and the associated driving hours and rules. Drivers with a learner’s license must always be accompanied by a licensed driver 21 years of age or older and, for the first three months after the license is issued, can only drive during daylight hours. After three months, they are allowed to drive until 10 p.m. Sixteen-year-old licensed drivers are not permitted to drive between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless driving to or from work or if accompanied by a licensed driver 21 years of age or older.
Adult drivers can also set the example for younger drivers. “Teenaged drivers are highly influenced by those around them, whether family members or other motorists, so the example we all set on the road has lasting impacts,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue. “FDOT encourages all drivers to practice safe driving habits while avoiding distractions to ensure everyone on the road can arrive to their destination safely.”
Several programs and services are offered to teach youth safe driving practices. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, supported by the Florida Sheriffs Association, offers the Teen Driver Challenge program, a part classroom/part driving experience that is a defensive driving and vehicle control program. It is designed to enhance the young driver’s awareness of the complex task of operating a motor vehicle and to create and practice skills that will prepare them to anticipate and handle hazards that occur daily in normal driving conditions.
The next class is offered on Dec. 2 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Walter C. Heinrich Practical Training Site, located at 14063 County Road 39 in Lithia. The program is offered on a first-come, fist-served basis and is limited to 12 participants. The application deadline is Nov. 2. Each student must have a valid driver’s license (no restricted licenses) and a vehicle. For additional information, contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at 813-247-8115.
For more tips on how to talk to teens about driving safety and other campaign resources, visit flhsmv.gov/safety-center/driving-safety/teen-drivers.