The Missouri Department of Insurance has recently issued a PSA encouraging parents to broach the topic of safe driving with their teenaged children.
The Department’s PSA coincides with April’s designation as Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
"As our family adds a new driver onto our auto policy, we know it is critically important to be involved and discuss safe driving habits with our teen," said John M. Huff, department director. "Take advantage of the department's web resources that highlight ways to discuss safe driving habits with your teenager and the benefits of being a good student for auto insurance coverage rates. Then, shop around your family's auto insurance coverage in Missouri's competitive auto insurance market."
Based on estimates by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, auto accidents in the state caused 48,753 deaths and injuries in 2014. The Center for Disease Control also reported that auto accidents lead to more teen fatalities each year than any other single cause. According to the agency, young adults between the ages of 15 and 24 accounted for 12,627 casualties and injuries in Missouri in 2014.
"The most devastating consequence of distracted driving can be the loss of life, but distracted driving can cause serious physical injury and substantial financial loss, as well," the director pointed out. "All drivers need to focus on the road ahead when behind the wheel."
The department’s PSA offers several pieces of advice to parents of young adult drivers, including:
