Weather Change Signals New Hazards For Young Drivers

Harsh weather, longer nights and distractions on virtually every corner tilts the table against teen drivers this time of year.

“It’s darker earlier, wet leaves on the road increase the time it takes to stop and business areas that normally aren’t distractions have elaborate decorations and light displays,” said James Solomon, the defensive driving expert for the National Safety Council. “It's almost like a conspiracy against young drivers.”

Preparation, anticipation and vigilance are invaluable to drivers of all ages, Solomon said. A guardian’s job is to help the teen understand their vehicle, the weather and their surroundings.

Below is advice from Solomon and law enforcement agencies for keeping teen drivers safe this holiday season:

• There’s really no margin for error: Icy streets and roadways littered with leaves increase both the amount of time and distance needed to stop. Remind them to press and hold the brakes to engage the ABS during an emergency stop.
• What are you wearing? Bulky and weatherproof clothing are a must-have this time of year but they restrict a person’s movement. Driving with a heavy coat, gloves or boots inhibits the ability to look over your shoulder or react as quickly as you would in lighter clothing. People on the street are bundled up as well, so their reactions won’t be as fluid, either.
• Familiarize them with the vehicle: Make them demonstrate how to turn on the defrosters, wipers, high-beams, fog lights and emergency flashers. Drivers must be able to access those features without taking their eyes off the road.
• Don’t pack the sled with gifts: Don’t stuff so many purchases into the backseat/cargo area that they obscure the windows, block your peripherals and increase your blind spots.
• Don’t be a soft target: The Stockton Police Department reminds shoppers every year it takes mere seconds to break a car window and rummage around for valuables. Leaving gifts and electronics on the passenger’s seat increases the odds of a burglary. Even something as innocent as a bottle of prescription medication in the center console could trigger a smash-and-grab. Sure, you know pills treat heartburn, but someone else sees it as a 50/50 chance of scoring painkillers, anti-depressants or amphetamines. Remember, the risk of vehicle burglaries jumps during the holidays as the spoils from a single day of shopping are packed in vehicles sitting in parking lots for hours on end.