Traffic accidents remain the leading cause of death among teen-agers, killing 15 teens every day across the country, reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Sun Prairie Police Department reports nearly 900 driving accidents in Sun Prairie involving teen-agers age 14-18 since 2001. The teens were either driving or passengers in a car driven by a teen.
General Casualty Insurance Companies and Sun Prairie Schools are working to reduce these accidents by teaching teen drivers how to drive more safely. The company, along with the Sun Prairie School District, will host Traffic Safety Night on Thursday, Nov. 11, at Prairie View Middle School (400 N. Thompson Rd.). The program will run from 6 to 8 p.m. All Sun Prairie students who are currently enrolled or have recently completed a driver education program and their parents are encouraged to attend.
The program will address some of the most frequent causes of teen driving accidents. According to NHTSA’s research, these include high speeds, alcohol and failure to wear seat belts. Nearly 31 percent of teen drivers who died in crashes last year had been drinking, and 74 percent were not wearing seat belts. Information about graduated licensing requirements and factors affecting insurance rates for teen-age drivers will also be shared. Presenters include Jennifer Neibuhr from the Dane County Sheriff’s Department, John Olson from Sun Prairie High School, and Gary Tribbey from General Casualty.
“It’s important for parents and teens to take the time to discuss driving safety,” said Gary Tribbey, General Casualty personal lines business analyst. “These issues include buckling up whenever they get in a vehicle and discussing the dangers of drinking and driving. Even the model of cars they drive and how many passengers they’re riding with can affect their safety.”
Traffic Safety Night will begin with a pizza dinner, followed by speaker presentations and an opportunity for parents and teens to develop responsible-driving contracts. The contract outlines the teen’s driving responsibilities and the consequences if those responsibilities are not met, encouraging them to discuss these issues before problems develop.
“In 2002, teen drivers accounted for less than 7 percent of all licensed drivers but were the most likely to be involved in fatal crashes. These statistics are alarming. We hope education about safe driving and building good communication between teens and parents will help reduce this likelihood,” said Hollie Bowker, General Casualty’s corporate relations manager. The company has partnered with the Sun Prairie School District in sponsoring Traffic Safety Night twice a year since 2001 to help ensure that teen driving is a positive and safe experience. It draws an average of 150-200 guests.
For more information please contact Anne M. Smith.