Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the U.S.- more than suicides, homicides, and cancer combined- with nine teens losing their lives every day from car accidents. “It’s really important to be aware of vehicle safety and how to avoid crashes,” said Marion Dowling, a AAA representative. Dowling gave these tips to students on how to avoid crashes on the road and be a safe and responsible driver.

1. Never drive angry or upset. 

2. Don’t do anything that will distract you- like reading, fixing your hair, or doing homework. 

3. Don’t text and drive- if you are driving 55 mph, in the 4.6 seconds it takes to send an text, you will have driven the length of a football field blind- making it unsafe AND, due to a new law, illegal.

4. Don’t rush, weave, or get anxious in the vehicle.

5. Always make sure your vehicle is in safe and working condition. 

6. Don’t drive drunk, even if you just feel buzzed- buzzed driving is drunk driving. 

7. Make sure your “Brain is in the Game” and you are focused at all times. 

And above all, Dowling said, if you feel like your ability to drive safely is impaired in any way, do not get in the car. Call a parent, ride home with a friend, or take public transportation. AAA even has a service called “Tow to Go” that provides towing service and rides home during the holidays for intoxicated drivers. This service is free for the public, not just AAA members.