2,163 American teens were killed in car accidents in 2013. In fact, teens aged 16 - 19 are three times more likely to get into an accident than people in any other age group. In order to prevent these numbers from getting any higher, there are certain things that you can do to help prevent the teens in our lives getting into an accident. 

Preventing Teen Accidents

75% of teen crashes are due to critical errors on the part of the teen. To teach children how not to commit one of these critical errors and get into an accident, follow these tips. 

• No Cell Phones!

​Cell phones distract drivers, and it is estimated by the National Safety Council that 23% of all car accidents involve cell phones. This is a problem especially associated with teens. Unfortunately, more than 50% of teenagers between 16 - 17 admit to using their cell phone while driving. 

• No Drinking and Driving 

Unfortunately, 33% of fatal accidents with drivers between 15 - 20 involve alcohol. Alcohol severely impairs a driver's motor skills and their ability to react. Don't let your child become a statistic, and be sure to emphasize the importance of finding alternative methods home if they do make the mistake to drink. 

• Limit Passangers

The more passengers in the car when a teen drives, the more dangerous it  becomes. Friends can be a big distraction. In fact, studies by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety indicate that just one passenger can increase the crash risk by 48%. Implement rules that limit passengers and gradually increase those limitations with evidence of good driving. 

• Wear a Seatbelt

34 states have laws that require people in the front seat to wear seat belts. However, people still ignore these laws. Emphasize the importance of the seat belts and encourage your teen to wear them 100% of the time. They can prevent or limit injuries during a crash up to 50% of the time. 

• Prepare for Dangerous Conditions

An inexperienced driver could easy try to fight it when they end up skidding on an icy road. And if they can't see the ice, they definitely won't be prepared. Teach your teen to reduce speed in dangerous conditions, to always go with an icy skid, and to be careful of black ice. 

You can teach your teen everything you know, but the best way to implement these habits in your teen is to be a good example and follow these rules yourself. If your teen does get into any trouble, hire a trusted accident attorney.