10 Tips for Discussing the Consequences of Distracted Driving with Your Kids
Discussing the dangers of distracted driving with your children, particularly in the Maritimes, is a
critical step in fostering safe driving habits. In New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward
Island, traffic accidents caused by distractions such as mobile phones or other in-car activities are
a significant concern.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you approach this important conversation with your children:
1. Start the Conversation Early
Initiate the discussion about road safety and distracted driving well before your child becomes a
driver. Children are often passengers in cars long before they can drive, making it important to start
educating them early.
Highlight how distractions, whether it’s texting or adjusting the GPS, can quickly escalate into
dangerous situations. You can incorporate everyday situations as teaching moments, helping them
recognize distractions even when you’re driving.
2. Be the Role Model
Your actions speak louder than words. If your children see you using your phone while driving,
they’ll be more likely to mimic that behaviour once they’re behind the wheel. Set the standard by
always putting your phone away, using hands-free devices when absolutely necessary, and staying
focused on the road.
Studies show that children model their parents’ behaviour, making your example critical in shaping
their driving habits.
3. Discuss Real-Life Examples
Present real-life cases to help drive home the seriousness of distracted driving. Statistics from the
Maritimes, like those provided by police or government agencies, are effective in illustrating how
severe the issue is.
For example, in 2022, distracted driving contributed to approximately 20% of all crashes in New
Brunswick, and similar numbers can be found across Nova Scotia and PEI. Sharing news stories
from these provinces where young people were involved in accidents due to distractions can make
the consequences feel more real to them.
4. Break Down the Legal Consequences
Make sure your kids understand the legal ramifications of distracted driving in the Maritimes.
Penalties for distracted driving are strict:
• New Brunswick: First-time offenders face fines of $172.50 and 3 demerit points, while
repeat offenses can lead to larger fines and potential suspension of driving privileges.
• Nova Scotia: The first offense incurs a fine of $410 and 4 demerit points. Second-time
offenders pay $732.50 and accrue more points, while repeated violations could lead to
license suspension.
• Prince Edward Island: Distracted driving results in a minimum fine of $575 and the
addition of 5 demerit points to your record.
These consequences can affect future insurance premiums and driving privileges. By discussing
the local laws, kids will realize that distracted driving isn’t just dangerous—it’s also illegal and
costly.
5. Empower Them to Speak Up
Encourage your kids to advocate for their safety, even when they are passengers. Empower them to
tell friends or adults to stop engaging in distractions while driving, such as texting or using social
media. Reinforce that it’s okay to refuse a ride with someone who doesn’t prioritize road safety. Let
them know that their safety is more important than being polite in these situations.
8. Appeal to Their Social Responsibility
Teens often care deeply about their friends. Talk to them about how distracted driving could hurt
not only themselves but also others. Mention that being a responsible driver protects not just their
own life, but the lives of their passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers.
Explain how distracted driving-related crashes can leave emotional scars on victims, families, and
communities, something felt keenly in tight-knit Maritime communities.
9. Discuss the Emotional Impact of Accidents
Share stories of families affected by distracted driving crashes, emphasizing the human side of the
statistics. Consider discussing the Humboldt Broncos tragedy, for example, to demonstrate how
one accident can ripple out and change countless lives forever. Making the conversation more
personal helps them understand the broader consequences beyond the immediate crash.
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