Texting and Driving: Parents Are the Worst Role Models

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Teens are taking a cue from their parents when it comes to texting and driving, and it’s not looking good. Shocking statistics reveal that four out of ten teenagers admit to texting behind the wheel, and that’s not counting those who keep quiet about it. While it’s easy to blame the younger generation for their risky behavior, research shows they’re just mirroring what they see—us.

A recent survey by Liberty Mutual Insurance, involving 2,500 teens and 1,000 parents, uncovered some unsettling truths. Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a spokesperson for the organization Parents Against Reckless Driving, has some alarming stats to share:

• Half of parents have sent texts to their teen while they were driving, with a third expecting a reply before the teen reached their destination.
• Over half of parents admit to using apps while driving, proving that texting isn’t the only distraction.
• A staggering 68% of teens also “app and drive,” with social media use perceived as less risky than texting or drinking and driving.
• 80% of teens don’t even consider app usage while driving to be distracting.
• The most concerning statistic? 62% of parents acknowledge checking or responding to calls while driving.

As Dr. Mitchell emphasizes, this isn’t about shaming parents; it’s about facing facts. With 11 teens dying daily because of texting and driving, we need to shine a bright light on our own bad habits to save lives.

I’m a parent to a nine-year-old who loves to call me out on my contradictions (and no, I’m not just talking about sneaking candy). I don’t text while driving, but I’ve definitely been guilty of checking notifications at red lights. I know it’s a bad habit, and my daughter knows it too—she’s quick to remind me whenever I do it.

Even if I’m not typing out messages or having long conversations, merely holding or glancing at my phone is a form of distracted driving. There’s no justification for it. I frequently notice other adults stealing glances at their phones instead of focusing on the road. “Just a quick look” isn’t safe, and our kids are taking notes.

As parents, we are the primary role models for our children. If we tell them not to text and drive or use apps while driving, how can we justify doing it ourselves? Actions speak louder than words, and if we’re scrolling through our phones in front of our kids, we’re teaching them that it’s acceptable behavior. By the time they start driving, they’ll think it’s perfectly normal.

The reality is that texting while driving is six times more likely to cause an accident than driving under the influence. While we need to keep hammering that message home, we also have to lead by example. Our kids’ lives depend on it—let’s not drop the ball.

For more insight into raising safe drivers, check out our post here: Contact Us for more resources. And if you’re interested in exploring home insemination options, check out Make a Mom’s Artificial Insemination Kit for a comprehensive guide. For those on the journey to parenthood, Cleveland Clinic’s IVF and Fertility Preservation podcast is an excellent resource.

In summary, parents need to set a better example when it comes to distracted driving. Teens are watching us, and our behaviors influence their choices. Let’s prioritize safety and model responsible habits behind the wheel.