The Downey Patriot

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Downey Police remind teen drivers to be safe on the roads

Downey Police Department

DOWNEY — This week (Oct. 18-24) is National Teen Driver Safety Week, and the  Downey Police Department is encouraging parents to discuss the importance of safe  driving habits with their teens as newly licensed drivers. 

This week, and every week, we want parents to get involved with their teen’s new  responsibilities as a driver and help them understand the rules of the road. 

“New drivers will naturally be inexperienced,” Downey Police Department Chief Dean  Milligan said. “Parents play an important role helping teens stay safe behind the wheel. It starts with practicing good habits like wearing a seat belt, staying off the phone and  following the speed limit.” 

The greatest risk for teen drivers is distracted driving, speeding, and impairment. Throughout the week the Downey Police Department offers tips to parents and  caregivers on how to talk to teens about the consequences of making dangerous and  illegal choices behind the wheel.  

  • Avoid Distractions: Cell phone use while driving is illegal. Drivers under 18 are  not allowed to use a phone or other electronic device for any reason, including  hands-free. 

  • Understand Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Laws: For the first 12 months  you have a license or until the age of 18, no passengers under 20 years old are  allowed unless a licensed parent, guardian or other adult 25 years old or older is  in the car with you. Late-night driving (between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.) is also not  permitted. 

  • Never Drive Under the Influence: All teens are too young to legally buy,  possess or consume alcohol. Under California’s zero tolerance law, any driver  under 21 cannot drink any alcohol and drive (blood alcohol concentration of .01%  or higher). 

  • Follow the Speed Limit: The road is not a racetrack. Speeding is a risky  behavior that increases the chances of serious injury or death in a crash.

“It’s important for parents to let their teen know that driving is not a right, but a privilege,” the Downey Police Department said. “It can be taken away when they don’t follow the rules.”