Tips for Novice Student Drivers Provided by WHP Authority Figure
With the new school year upon us, many teenagers in Sheridan County are taking to the roads to drive themselves to Sheridan High School for the first time. Amidst this change, Wyoming Highway Patrol Lieutenant Louis Tegdesch and troopers are urging young adults to prioritize safety and develop positive driving habits.
Lt. Tegdesch has emphasized key safety tips for teen drivers, including the importance of avoiding phone use while driving (even hands-free) to prevent distraction, obeying speed limits, and slowing down for road and weather conditions. These measures are crucial in reducing the risk of crashes, particularly in adverse conditions such as wet, icy, or low visibility roads.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol reinforces these points by reminding drivers to follow all traffic rules, drive responsibly, and adjust speed according to conditions rather than strictly adhering to the maximum posted interstate speeds.
Seat belts play a significant role in reducing the risk of fatal injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belts cut the risk of fatal injury to front-seat occupants by about 45%. In Wyoming, seat belts or child safety seats are required for all passengers, and drivers with an intermediate license must ensure all passengers are buckled up.
Moreover, drivers with an intermediate license in Wyoming are restricted to carrying no more than one passenger under 18 who is not an immediate family member, and they may drive only between 5 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Distracted driving, a growing cause of crashes, can be deadly. Lt. Tegdesch strongly advises teen drivers to avoid using their phones while driving, even hands-free. He also encourages parents and guardians to set clear rules for their teen drivers and to serve as an example by following these rules themselves.
As the number of teen drivers on the road increases, the Wyoming Highway Patrol's message is clear: prioritize safety, follow traffic rules, and drive responsibly to reach your destination safely.
