We often hear alarming statistics about teens and texting while driving — around 40% admit to it, not including those who might be too embarrassed to confess. While it’s easy to blame the younger generation for their reckless choices, the truth is they often mirror the behavior they observe in their parents.
A recent survey by Safe Driving Solutions, which involved 2,500 teens and 1,000 parents of teen drivers, revealed some troubling insights. Dr. Sarah Johnson, an expert in adolescent behavior, highlighted some eye-opening numbers: nearly 50% of parents have texted their teen while they were driving, with about one-third expecting a reply before their child reached their destination.
Furthermore, more than half of parents admitted to using apps while behind the wheel. The survey found that 68% of teens also engage in “app and drive,” with many considering social media use less risky than texting or drinking and driving. Alarmingly, 80% of teens believe that using apps while driving is “not distracting.”
Perhaps the most shocking statistic is that 62% of parents confessed to checking incoming calls or even answering them while driving. Dr. Johnson emphasizes that the goal isn’t to shame parents, but to shed light on behaviors that endanger lives. With 11 teens dying daily due to texting and driving, it’s crucial to recognize the gravity of our actions.
As a mother to a curious nine-year-old who is quick to point out my contradictions, I completely understand this message. While I don’t text while driving, I am guilty of checking notifications at stoplights. I know it’s a risky habit, and my daughter has started calling me out on it — and she should!
Even a quick glance at my phone can be considered distracted driving. There’s no justification for it, and I know I’m not the only one who falls into this trap. When I’m stopped at red lights, I see countless adults looking down instead of focusing on the road. “Just” checking my phone isn’t safe, and our kids are taking notes.
As parents, we are the primary role models for our children. If we instruct them not to text or use apps while driving, how can we justify doing it ourselves? Regardless of what we say, our actions speak louder. If we check our phones in front of our kids, we’re teaching them that this behavior is acceptable, which will become their default once they start driving.
It’s clear that trying to change these habits when our kids are older is too late; they need to see us modeling safe driving practices long before they get their licenses. Texting while driving is six times more likely to cause an accident than driving under the influence, and while we must continue to stress this message, we also need to lead by example.
Our children’s lives are at stake, and we must take this responsibility seriously. Let’s not let them down.
For more insights into parenting and safe practices, check out this informative article on our other blog. And if you’re interested in home insemination, Make A Mom is an excellent resource. Discover more about the success rates of IUI at WebMD.
Summary:
This article highlights the concerning trend of parents setting a poor example for their teens regarding texting and driving. Statistics reveal that many parents engage in distracting phone behaviors while driving, which their children observe and may emulate. It reinforces the importance of parents modeling safe driving habits to influence their kids positively.