Teens and parents can find information and resources on how to improve driving safety.
Before you get started
Did you know?
- Car crashes are the leading cause of death and injury for teens in Washington.
- Most of these crashes are caused by teens who are distracted, speeding, or impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Parents and teens can do a lot to reduce the chances of being in a car crash.
How to reduce distracted driving
Having your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can change lives forever. New drivers with instruction permits or intermediate licenses can't use any wireless device, even those that are hands-free, while operating a vehicle. The only exception is if you're reporting an emergency.
Read a transcript of the video
Learn more about distracted driving
- Distracted driving can kill
Facts about distracted driving in Washington. - CDC Distracted Driving
National statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on distracted driving and how the government is working to prevent it. - National Safety Council Online Distracted Driving Course
90-minute or abridged 45-minute online course about the science of distracted driving, myths about multitasking, legal and financial consequences, and state and federal laws. Includes real-life driving scenarios and incident evaluations. - It Can Wait Music Video
Partners for Safe Teen Driving and American Idol-finalist Travis Tucker highlight the dangers of texting and driving. - Target Zero
Washington Traffic Safety Commission's strategic plan for zero deaths and zero serious injuries by 2030.
Safe driving resources
Practice safe driving
- Washington Driver Guide
Laws, rules, and techniques for safe driving. Available in 7 languages. - Safe-Driving Agreement
Parents and teen can establish a contract for safe-driving practices.
For parents
- Teen Driver Source
Research-based tools for improving teen driver safety from The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute. - Partners for Safe Teen Driving: For Parents
Learn how you can reinforce good driving and decision making skills that will lead to safe driving habits. - Driver training programs
Tips for choosing a driver training program and finding scholarships.
For teens
- Teen Driver Source
Research-based tools for improving teen driver safety from The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute. - Getting a license for teens age 16-17
Step-by-step guide on how to get a license and special rules and restrictions for teen drivers.
CDC's Parents are the Key campaign
The main cause of fatal teen driver accidents is inexperience. Parents and guardians who want to play a role in their teen's driver safety can find information, tools, and free materials.
- Parents are the Key
- Pediatricians and Safe Teen Driving
Materials specifically designed for pediatricians developed in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics.
