Summertime is the most anticipated time of year for a road trip – the temperature is warmer throughout the country, kids are out of school and parents can turn in unused vacation days for a much-needed break from the office. Each year, millions of families pack up their cars and hit the roads. However, as children grow into licensed teen drivers, the idea of taking a road trip with their friends becomes more enticing than spending hours in the car with mom and dad.

Motor vehicle accidents claim the lives of thousands of U.S. teens each year. That’s why it’s vital for young people to treat driving as a privilege that comes with great responsibility.

It’s also why Mercury Insurance created the Drive Safe Challenge. Our initiative champions safe driving and offers
education on everything from traffic laws and car maintenance to crucial driving skills and selecting the right vehicle.

Here are our best tips for new drivers (and more seasoned ones, too) to put into practice before hitting the road.