Disturbing Trends Revealed In Teen Survey

Chrissie Cole

Contributor

0 CommentsPrint ArticleSubscribe

A recent survey conducted by Allstate Insurance agents in 11 Texas cities reveals disturbing trends.

More than half of the teens questioned said they’ve driven after drinking or they’ve been in a car with a teen driver who had been drinking.

84 percent admit to text messaging or talking on their cell phones while driving and 68 percent have driven so fast they’ve lost control of the vehicle or have been in a car with a teen driver who lost control.

During the first year of driving 56 percent were stopped by police and 48 percent were in an accident. While 36 percent don’t care if they get a speeding ticket.

On a personal note… As the mother of two teenagers, these results are indeed disturbing. I constantly remind my kids to never talk and drive. They also know they can call me if they or their friends have been drinking – no questions asked (until the next morning that is!)

Parents pay a small fortune to insure their young drivers (I know I do) and I find it appalling that so many of them simply don’t care if they get a speeding ticket which would mean a hike in insurance rates.

Parents: talk to your kids and remind them to stay off their cell phones while on the road. Also let them know they can call you day or night and you will get them – no matter the circumstances – safety comes first.

If only more kids would pick up the phone at the right time…