Teen Driver Safety Week: Building Safe Habits Behind the Wheel

Getting a driver’s license is an exciting milestone for teens and their families. With that new independence comes an important responsibility: making safe choices on every trip.

During National Teen Driver Safety Week, October 18 - 24, 2026, the Statesville Police Department encourages teens, parents, and caregivers to talk about the habits that help keep everyone safe on the road. NHTSA identifies distractions, speeding, additional passengers, impaired driving, inconsistent seat belt use, and drowsy driving as key risks for teen drivers.

Six Reminders for Teen Drivers

Whether you are heading to school, work, practice, or a friend’s house, make these habits part of every drive:

• Buckle up before moving. Make sure everyone in the vehicle wears a seat belt.
• Put your phone away. Give driving your full attention.
• Watch your speed. Follow posted limits.
• Limit passengers. Friends can distract a new driver.
• Drive sober. Never drive impaired by alcohol or drugs.
• Drive rested. Avoid getting behind the wheel when tired.

These reminders address the major risks highlighted in NHTSA’s teen driver safety campaign.

Parents and Caregivers: Keep the Conversation Going

Your involvement matters even after your teen earns a license. Continue practicing together, discuss challenging driving situations, and set clear expectations about passengers, nighttime driving, phone use, and seat belts.

Consider putting those expectations in a parent-teen driving agreement. Review the restrictions that apply to your teen’s license, and revisit your family’s rules as their experience grows.

Set an example every time you drive. Buckle up, put your phone away, and follow speed limits. Let your teen know they can contact you or another trusted adult for a safe ride if they feel uncomfortable riding with someone who may be impaired.

Make Safety Part of Every Trip

Teen Driver Safety Week is an opportunity to start a conversation that continues throughout the year. The Statesville Police Department encourages families to take time this week to review driving expectations and reinforce safe habits.

Before the next trip, talk with your teen about the choices they make behind the wheel. Every drive is an opportunity to put safety first.