User Guide

TEEN DRIVER SAFETY

The teen years are a risky time for young drivers. In fact, these crucial years

present the greatest risk to new drivers. While driver’s training classes teach the

important fundamentals, there are further steps your teen can take to decrease

his/her risk. The Graduated Driver License system,

for example, has many tips

designed to keep teens safe. Some of the key elements of this system include:

• Require a minimum of 50 hours of driving experience over the course of 9 to

12 months, under the direct supervision of a licensed driver—either a parent

or other mature adult.

• Set nighttime limitations and passenger restrictions, reducing nighttime

restrictions over time.

• Work as a family to develop a vehicle expectation plan with clear direction

and consequences. For example, are friends allowed in the vehicle with your

teen? Decide these key things ahead of time as a family.

• Require safety belt use for everyone in the vehicle, every time, no excuses.

And, of course, obey all other laws.

• GM supports a ban on texting while driving for all drivers. GM encourages

all drivers to pair their cell phones with their vehicles and use the integrated

audio system. Avoid any tasks that cause a distraction to driving.

• Remember that parents are role models, guides and partners during the teen

driving experience.

• While many states include some elements of the Graduated Driver License

system, families may want to incorporate additional fundamentals that are not

part of their state’s new-driver laws.