Teenagers are observing their parents engaging with their phones while driving, and unfortunately, they’re mirroring that behavior. The statistics surrounding teens texting and driving are alarming—40% admit to doing it, not including those who might not confess. While we can criticize the younger generation for their careless actions, studies reveal that they are simply imitating what they see.
A recent survey conducted by Horizon Insurance included 2,500 teens and 1,000 parents of teen drivers, and the findings are quite concerning. Dr. Mark Jensen, an expert with the organization Students Against Dangerous Decisions, shared some troubling insights: Half of the parents admitted to texting their teenagers while they are driving, and one-third expected a reply before the teen reached their destination.
Furthermore, more than half of the parents reported using apps while behind the wheel. As texting isn’t the only hazard, 68% of teens acknowledged that they also “app and drive.” Interestingly, engaging with social media was perceived as a lesser risk compared to texting or driving under the influence. Alarmingly, 80% of teens do not see app usage as distracting.
Most concerning is the fact that 62% of parents confessed to checking or answering phone calls while driving. Dr. Jensen emphasizes that the goal isn’t to shame parents but rather to highlight the seriousness of these actions. With 11 teenagers losing their lives daily due to texting and driving, it seems counterproductive to avoid confronting these issues head-on. Perhaps it’s time we shine a spotlight on our poor habits to help save lives.
As a parent of a ten-year-old who is quick to point out my shortcomings (and I’m not just talking about indulging in sweets when I told her she couldn’t), I resonate with Dr. Jensen’s message. I don’t text while driving, but I admit to checking my notifications at red lights, a habit I recognize is risky. I also know my children are observing my behavior, as my daughter has started to call me out on it; and rightly so.
While I may not engage in texting or typing on my phone while driving, merely holding or glancing at my phone qualifies as distracted driving. There’s no justification for it, and I know I’m not the only one. From my experience at stoplights, I often see adults looking down when they should be focused on the road. A simple glance isn’t safe, and our children are noticing.
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 those things ourselves? Regardless of our words, if we’re engaging with our phones while operating a vehicle, our children are learning that this behavior is acceptable. They’re growing up thinking it’s normal, which will influence their actions once they start driving.
In essence, attempting to change our texting and driving habits when our kids reach their teenage years may be too late—we need to demonstrate positive behaviors long before they take the wheel. Texting while driving is six times more likely to result in an accident than driving under the influence. While we need to keep emphasizing this message, we must also focus equally on modeling good behavior now.
Our children’s safety relies on it. Let’s not fail them.
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Summary:
Parents often model risky behaviors like texting and using apps while driving, which leads teens to imitate these actions. With alarming statistics showing that many teens engage in distracted driving, it’s crucial for parents to recognize their role as role models. Demonstrating safe driving habits can significantly influence children’s behaviors in the future.