Make Sure Your Teen's First Car Is Safe

young woman hugging her car with a smile on her face

Every family wants their teen driver to get where they’re going safely. Car crashes are one of the leading causes of death for U.S. teenagers. Newer vehicles and driver assistance technologies can help keep teen drivers safer on the road.

Because parents and caregivers often control what vehicles their teens drive, their choices make a big impact on the safety of their teens and others on the road. Families should prioritize safety features when choosing the first car for teens, ensuring it is newer and safer, given the increased involvement of teen drivers in motor vehicle crashes and motor vehicle crash-related fatalities.

Based on a study by researchers from the Center for Injury Research and Policy, here are some recommendations for parents and caregivers when choosing the first car for their teens:

Vehicle Age:
- Avoid vehicles older than 15 years, especially during the first few months of unsupervised driving, which is the highest crash risk period for teen drivers.
- Refer to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for a list of affordable, safe vehicles. If a newer vehicle is not an option, plan on more frequent maintenance to improve the vehicle’s safety.
Newer Safety Technologies:
- Prioritize safety features. Teens should drive the safest vehicles available.
- Learn about the benefits of newer vehicle technologies, such as crash avoidance features, lane assistance technology, and teen-specific technologies, which can significantly reduce crashes and related injuries.
- Choose vehicles with more driver assistance technologies whenever possible.
Safe Driving Habits:
- Teach teens about the dangers of risky driving behaviors and promote safe driving habits, such as seat belt use, safe nighttime driving, limiting passengers, avoiding distractions, and following state Graduated Driver Licensing requirements.
- Remember, you are your child’s first and best role model. When you’re driving them around, even when they’re still in a car seat, always wear a seat belt, avoid distractions, and follow the rules of the road.