When it comes to texting and driving, the numbers concerning teens are alarming—nearly 40% admit to this risky behavior. However, this statistic doesn’t even account for those who may be too embarrassed to confess. While it’s easy to criticize teens for their irresponsibility, research indicates that their habits are largely learned from us: their parents.
A recent survey by Evergreen Insurance, which involved 2,500 teenagers and 1,000 parents of teen drivers, revealed some unsettling truths about our driving habits. Dr. Linda Hawkins, an advisor for the organization Students Against Reckless Driving, shares some troubling insights: half of the parents surveyed have texted their teen while they were behind the wheel, and about a third expected a reply before the teen reached their destination.
Moreover, more than half of parents admit to using apps while driving, as texting is no longer the only concern. A staggering 68% of teens reported that they also engage in “app and drive,” with activities like checking social media being viewed as less hazardous compared to texting or drinking. Alarmingly, 80% of teens think using apps while driving is “not distracting.”
Perhaps the most concerning statistic is that 62% of parents acknowledge using their phones to check calls or respond to them while driving. Dr. Hawkins emphasizes that this isn’t about shaming parents but rather about recognizing that our actions have consequences. With 11 teenagers losing their lives each day due to texting and driving, we must confront our bad habits to truly protect our children.
As a mother of a nine-year-old who isn’t shy about pointing out my own double standards, I fully grasp Dr. Hawkins’ message. While I never text while driving, I’m guilty of checking notifications at red lights. I know it’s a hazardous practice—no less risky than texting. I’m aware my daughter is observing, and she has begun to call me out on it, which is exactly what she should do.
Simply put, holding or glancing at a phone while driving constitutes distracted driving. There is no justification for it, and I am not alone in this acknowledgment. At red lights, I often witness other adults sneaking glances at their phones, when they should be focused on the road. A quick glance isn’t safe, and our kids are taking note of these behaviors.
As parents, we are the primary role models for our children. If we instruct them not to text or use apps while driving, how can we justify doing so ourselves? Regardless of our verbal admonitions, our children absorb our actions. They are being conditioned to believe such behavior is acceptable, setting a dangerous precedent for when they eventually begin driving.
In essence, if we wait until our children are teenagers to change our texting and driving habits, it may be too late. They need to witness us practicing safe behaviors long before they take the wheel themselves. Texting while driving is six times more likely to cause an accident than driving under the influence of alcohol, and while we must continue to highlight this danger, we also need to stress the importance of modeling good habits. Our children’s safety hinges on it.
Let’s commit to being better role models today—not tomorrow. They deserve it.
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Summary
Texting while driving is a serious issue, especially among teens, who often emulate their parents’ behaviors. Surveys reveal that many parents text or use apps while driving, setting a poor example for their children. To ensure their safety, parents must demonstrate responsible driving habits long before their kids start driving.
Keyphrase: texting and driving
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