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Seniors & AGING

Parent-Youth Safe Driving Contract

By Gary Direnfeld, MSW, RSW

Introduction

Teen drivers have the highest crash risk of any age group.  Per mile traveled, they have the highest involvement rates in all types of crashes, from those involving only property damage to those that are fatal.  The problem is worst among youth in their first year of driving, who have the most limited driving experience and an immaturity that often results in risk-taking behind the wheel.

Parents/guardians, you are concerned about your youth’s safety.  As role models of behavior, especially driving behavior, your son/daughter may interpret any unsafe driving behavior they see you do as acceptable for them to do.  Please consider the example you set.

Youth, you are watching your parents’ driving behaviors for differences between what they say and what they do.  You may be comparing what you’ve learned in your driver’s education class to what you see them doing.  You may feel that whatever your parents expect of you, you should be able to expect of them.

I Promise Program

The I Promise Program has been developed together with you, parents, and community members to help families address issues that relate most to new or young driver car crashes.  The I Promise Program respects your family’s unique relationship and is a tool to help you discuss safe driving issues.

I Promise Program Contract

The I Promise Program Contract gives your family the freedom to set your own conditions.  The Contract highlights several issues regarding driving and responsibilities.  It is recommended that you complete the contract together, discussing and negotiating each issue, and ultimately decided which issues best fit your family by checking the box beside the item.  By entering into this contract, you are bound by your agreement to drive safely.

The I Promise Program Rear-Window Sign seals the contract and serves as a public declaration of your family’s commitment to safe driving.  If you affix the rear-window sign to your family’s vehicle, community members can make a report on your driving by phoning you directly.  You can speak with the caller and discuss their report.

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The I Promise Program was developed by Gary Direnfeld, MSW, RSW.  To learn more about the program and to download the I Promise Program Contract go to http://www.ipromiseprogram.com/

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