The Oceanside Police Department is calling on parents and guardians to have serious conversations with their teenage children about safe driving practices as National Teen Driver Safety Week takes place October 18-24.
Motor vehicle crashes remain one of the top causes of death among teenagers between 15 and 18 years old nationwide. Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that 2,320 people died in collisions involving teen drivers in 2024. In California alone during that same period, 496 fatalities occurred in crashes where the driver was 20 years old or younger.
Traffic Investigator Kevin Lissner emphasized the critical role that family discussions can play in preventing tragedies. He noted that when parents and guardians address topics such as distracted driving, excessive speed, and substance impairment, they equip young drivers with the knowledge needed to make better decisions on the road.
Young drivers need to recognize the serious risks associated with dangerous behaviors including speeding, texting behind the wheel, failing to buckle up, and operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, according to police officials.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles provides several no-cost resources designed for teens, including a mobile-accessible version of the California Quick Reference Driver's Handbook, instructional videos, and the Teen Driver Roadmap—a video series that walks both teens and parents through the process of preparing for safe driving. The Office of Traffic Safety has also launched a free online driving simulator called The Road Ahead, which allows teens, parents, and educators to practice navigating realistic driving scenarios.
The initiative receives financial support through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, which is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.