Kathleen Slagel, RN, of Grand View’s Emergency Department said it’s important to remember that your high school aged driver is still inexperienced and it’s important to limit distractions. Restrict the number of other people in the car and if your child’s excited you might want to offer to drop them off, she suggests.

In the case of prom, it might be worth paying the extra money for a limousine, especially if the event is held in a location outside your teen’s usual driving route. And before the car rolls away, make sure your child buckles up. Many teenagers, particularly young women, don’t want to wrinkle their outfits by wearing seatbelts. 

What talk about teens and special events would be complete without the reminder to talk to your adolescent about the dangers of alcohol or other mind-altering substances. Of course, it’s illegal and we’d all like to think our child is too responsible to consume alcohol, but statistics show that many teens do. Let them know that they cannot drive if they have consumed alcohol or ride with anyone who has. If they find themselves in such a situation let them know that they can always call you or another responsible adult for a ride, without fear of punishment.

Are you talking to your teen about prom and graduation safety?  Share your thoughts with other moms.