The State Patrol in neighboring Wisconsin has chosen to highlight teen driver safety as its October Law of the Month. As always, the advice given works for Upper Peninsula residents as well, not just those across the border.

A teen driver is involved in a crash every 28 minutes in Wisconsin, according to the WSP. Inexperience, distractions and speed often contribute to these crashes. Parents and caregivers have an important role in teaching teen drivers to make smart choices before handing over the keys, the WSP states in a news release.

“Ongoing conversations about safe driving can go a long way in preparing teen drivers to take the wheel,” WSP Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Set aside dedicated time to practice driving with your teen and reinforce the rules of the road. Safe driving conversations can start while kids are still in the backseat. Be sure to always model safe driving and take opportunities to talk about safe choices.”

In 2024, teen drivers were involved in 18,823 crashes in Wisconsin, causing 70 fatalities and 5,782 injuries. Those deaths included 24 teenage drivers.

The Wisconsin State Patrol’s October Law of the Month webpage, https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/law/lom.aspx, provides guidance for parents and teens to discuss safety on the road and prevent crashes involving young drivers. The recommendations include —

— Never drive impaired: Wisconsin law requires absolute sobriety for drivers under age 21. Be sure to also remind teens of the dangers of riding with someone who is impaired.

— Buckle up: Seat belt use is one of the easiest ways to stay safe in a crash. Whether a driver or passenger, seat belts save lives and they are required by law.

— Avoid distractions: Anything that takes your eyes off the road can be a distraction, especially cell phones. Cell phone use is banned for drivers with probationary licenses and instructional permits, except to report an emergency. If needed, pull over to a safe location when calling to report an emergency.

— Follow the speed limit: Traffic crashes are more dangerous when they involve excessive speed. Speeding is one of the main contributing factors for crashes in Wisconsin.

Teens need to understand the rules of the road and follow the restrictions outlined in Wisconsin’s graduated driver licensing law to prevent dangerous situations for themselves and other motorists, the WSP advised. For more about the steps for teens to obtain a driver license in Wisconsin, go to wisconsindmv.gov/teendriver.