New Jersey Auto Insurer Offers Teen Driver Training for Parents

Before receiving that coveted driver’s license, teens need to complete extensive classroom and practical training. Yet it is actually parents that do the most teaching. A local auto-insurer believes these parents may benefit from a refresher course themselves. New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Company (NJM) developed Share the Keys, a program designed to teach parents how to best help their teens become safe drivers. To date, more than 200 New Jersey high schools have offered Share the Keys to parents of teens learning how to drive.

Teen Drivers and Crashes

According to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s (CHOP) Teen Driver Source, car crashes are the leading cause of teen fatalities. Based on recent crash data, it is estimated that six teens between the ages of 16 and 19 lose their lives in fatal car accidents every day. This age group is three times more likely to be fatally injured in a car accident than any other age group.

Distracted driving, speeding, and a lack of scanning for hazards are the top reasons why teens crash. NJM believes more can be done to supplement existing driver instruction for teens, and that enlisting parents is the first step.

Share the Keys and Parent Education

NJM created Share the Keys to teach parents the right way to teach their teens to drive. After collaborating with the Teen Safe Driving Coalition, AAA, and the Motor Vehicle Commission, NJM decided to expand Share the Keys to any school in New Jersey requesting the program.

Share the Keys Teaches Parents:

• The benefit of parent participation in teen driver training to reduce crashes
• The ins and outs of the graduated driver license (GDL) law that gives teens their license in stages over 18 months or more
• How to choose a safe first car for their teen
• The benefit of giving teens more time behind the wheel to combat crashes due to inexperience
• How controlling their teen’s keys can prevent accidents
• The concept of a safe driving contract for teens and parents

Incentives for Parent Involvement

A CHOP study on teen driving found that parental participation in their teen’s driving education decreased the risk of car accidents by half. NJM, school administrators, and driver safety advocates believe the right incentives may encourage parents to become involved. Some school officials want to hold off on offering learners’ permits and parking spots until parents have completed some form of teen driver training. Auto insurance discounts for parents who complete teen driving programs are another possible incentive.

Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Handle Accident Cases Involving Teen Drivers

Novice drivers are statistically more likely to cause a car accident than more experienced drivers. If you have been injured by a teen driver, DiTomaso Law can help. Their experienced Cherry Hill car accident lawyers will investigate the details of your accident and assess your injuries to determine who is at fault and if you are entitled to compensation for your expenses and pain and suffering. To schedule your free confidential consultation, contact us online or call 856-414-0010.

DiTomaso Law serves Camden County, Burlington County, Salem County, Gloucester County, Cumberland County, Atlantic County, Philadelphia County, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, Chester County, and towns throughout South Jersey and Southeastern Pennsylvania.