Driving safely and without distractions is something for which we all ALL should strive. Last week was Teen Driver Safety Week, and served as a good reminder that our youngest drivers still have a lot of learning to do behind the wheel.

Something that parents should be discussing with their youngsters is to make the right choices behind the wheel. Drivers should also always wear their safety belt, obey the speed limit, and avoid distracted driving. What we sometimes forget is that distractions can come from other passengers in the vehicle, a drive-through meal or a cell phone.

The NHTSA says motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in teens 15-18 years old in the U.S. In 2019, there were 2,042 people killed in crashes that involved a teen driver, and 628 of those deaths were the teen driver.

These are sobering facts, and a reminder of what is at stake. Everyone should be thinking about vehicle safety every time they are behind the wheel.