If you’re a parent of teens, drinking and driving is one issue that has probably weighed on your mind at least once. Unfortunately, there is never an easy way to approach this topic with your teen. You want to be able to trust your teens to make responsible decisions, but keep in mind that youths are extremely impressionable. Luckily, parents like you are not powerless in this situation.
Consequences of Underage Drinking and Driving
Responsible parents understand the harsh consequences of driving under the influence, but it’s highly likely that their teens who are new to driving and might be underage drinking may not. Sneaking a drink can be seen as a rite of passage for some curious teens, and many of these experiences don’t get shared with concerned parents. At the same time, just because they’re young doesn’t mean they get a free pass when it comes to breaking the laws. In fact, every state has a “zero-tolerance policy” when it comes to underage drinking and driving. While fines and penalties vary between underage and adult offenders, the outcomes of these implications are similar. The worst-case scenario in a drunk driving situation happens more often than you know. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 17% of over 10,800 drunk driving deaths were caused by teenage drunk drivers in 2017.
How to Tell if Your Teen is Drinking
To prevent your teenager from being part of future statistics, it’s important to also know the warning signs that your teen has been drinking. While most parents of teenagers don’t believe their kids would experiment with alcohol while underage, the truth is that most teens experiment with such substances. Here are some telltale signs that may suggest your teenager is drinking alcohol:
- They exhibit physical signs of intoxication – drowsiness, poor coordination, flushed skin, and slurred speech.
- They ask to spend the night at a friend’s house regularly – this may indicate that your teen does not want you to see the condition they’re in after a night with friends.
- They ask for cash but don’t explain what it’s for – avoiding explanations can mean the money is being used for something unacceptable.
How to Talk to Your Teen About Drinking and Driving
Being a teenager comes with the pressures of wanting to impress friends in all sorts of ways. You would know it, you’ve been there. It’s important to approach this topic with understanding by having an open discussion. This way, you’ll understand your teen’s feelings and needs, and can find healthier alternatives for them to meet their needs. It’s great to start even well before they’re old enough to drink or drive so that the consequences are ingrained in them from young. Most importantly, you should constantly emphasize that your child can always come to you for help – no matter what they do. Let them know you’ll pick them up if they can’t find a safe ride home, and that you’re proud of them for choosing to stay away from the wheel.
Why Choose Jackson Bibby Awareness Group
If you’re in the San Bernardino area and need DUI services, our multiple offender program has proven to significantly benefit many of our clients. If you have any inquiries about what we do, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
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