Many Teens Overestimate Driving Skills Despite Awareness of Distraction Risks - Seite 2

"Becoming a licensed driver is a significant rite of passage for many teens. This survey identifies the challenges young drivers face as they begin their driving journey and it highlights the need for comprehensive graduated driver licensing programs in all states," says Sara Frankowiak, Vice President of P&C Actuarial at State Farm. "The survey also indicates that parents aren't the only ones responsible for modeling safe driving and coaching their teen drivers — teens can also play a vital role by holding their peers accountable for making safe choices on the road."

In contrast with mixed results on smartphone use, most respondents reported never driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, driving aggressively, or riding unbelted. "While these findings clearly demonstrate safety messages about other risks have been understood by the majority of young drivers who have changed their behavior, there's still work to be done to increase awareness about distraction-related risks," says Robertson.

Influences

When asked about who influences their driving the most, the answer was clear: parents. About half of all respondents chose parents as a top influencer, with friends as a distant second. But of concern, many respondents also indicated their parents use devices at least sometimes while driving, underscoring the importance of setting good examples as parents and caregivers. "Our future drivers begin watching from a young age," says Karen Bowman, founder of TIRF's Drop It And Drive^® program. "When it comes to setting the right example, our children are sponges. Relying on the do as I say, not as I do philosophy is an inherent contradiction and they're savvy enough to know it."

Motivators

Respondents were also asked about why they feel it's safe to multitask while driving. Half of those who reported interacting with their device while driving shared that they managed their risk using hands-free features and limited use of devices to moments they perceived as safer. More than a third referred to their driving skills, and similarly, about a fifth viewed themselves as excellent multitaskers.

The study results offer some specific insight into which behaviors our younger drivers engage in and why they find these actions acceptable. This knowledge can provide the foundation for more effective strategies to influence change. There are some important differences with respect to knowledge of risks and motivators which can help shape and better customize prevention messaging. A priority for awareness campaigns is to help teens better understand their limitations as drivers and most importantly, they should capitalize on the powerful role of parents and guardians in influencing the choices of teens.