10/18/2026
๐ ๐ NATIONAL TEEN DRIVER SAFETY WEEK | OCTOBER 18โ24, 2026 ๐ ๐
The Surry County Sheriffโs Office is teaming up with the U.S. Department of Transportationโs National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to recognize National Teen Driver Safety Week, October 18โ24, 2026.
This week serves as an important reminder that safe driving starts with education, preparation, and responsible choices. Parents and guardians play a critical role in helping teens develop safe driving habits before handing over the keys.
โ ๏ธ THE FACTS MATTER. THE CHOICES MATTER. โ ๏ธ
According to NHTSA, in 2024:
๐น 85,947 teen drivers were injured in traffic crashes.
๐น 2,320 people were killed in crashes involving a teen driver.
๐น 752 of those who lost their lives were teen drivers themselves.
๐น 478 fatalities were passengers of teen drivers, including 280 other teens.
Behind every statistic is a life, a family, and a future that matters. One reckless decision behind the wheel can have lifelong consequences.
๐ TO OUR TEEN DRIVERS: ๐
Just got your license? Congratulations! Earning the privilege to drive is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with serious responsibility.
โ๏ธ Buckle up โ every trip, every time.
๐ต Put your phone away. No texting or distracted driving.
๐ฆ Obey speed limits. Getting there safely is more important than getting there quickly.
๐ฅ Limit passengers. Friends can be a distraction, especially for inexperienced drivers.
๐ Stay alert. Keep your eyes on the road and your mind on driving.
๐ซ Never drive impaired.
You have the keys; now itโs time to lock in! Your choices behind the wheel affect not only your life but also the lives of your passengers and everyone sharing the road. Drive smart, protect your future, and make every trip a safe one.
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ TO PARENTS AND GUARDIANS: ๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ
Before handing over the keys, establish clear rules and expectations. Talk openly with your teen about the dangers of speeding, distracted driving, and carrying too many passengers.
โ
Set firm rules about phone use and distractions.
โ
Establish limits on passengers.
โ
Reinforce the importance of seat belts.
โ
Discuss the consequences of reckless driving.
โ
Lead by example โ your teen is watching how you drive!
A driver's license is a privilege. Safe driving is a responsibility. Your teen needs more than a license; they need guidance, practice, and a solid understanding of the rules of the road. START THE CONVERSATION TODAY. A simple conversation could help prevent a crash and save a life.
The Surry County Sheriffโs Office encourages all parents, guardians, and teen drivers to work together to make our roads safer for everyone.
๐ Learn more about teen driving safety and the rules of the road: https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/teen-driving or https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/safety/programs/teens