Speak Out

Research shows that that the frontal lobe of the brain does not fully develop until around 25 years of age; this is the part of the brain that is responsible for things like regulating your impulses, risk management and social awareness…so by identifying some of these key areas where young people may have to work harder – we aim to reduce the number of young people involved in crashes.

Read below for coping strategies and things you can do to help stay safer whether you’re a driver or passenger…

Friends are important.

Show them you care by keeping them safe in the car.

Understand the responsibility

Everyone has responsibility and a choice, even before you get in the car.

If you’re having a night out, going to a house party, or just hanging out at a friend’s house, have you planned your journey home? Choose a designated driver for the night, or if you’re all enjoying a drink, book a taxi. Remember, you can still be over the limit the next morning.

Passengers – Do what it takes…

• Whether up front or in the back, wear your seatbelt. Friends protect each other.
• If you feel uneasy, say something. A good friend will listen. If you find yourself in a dangerous situation as a passenger, why not use some of the ideas below to help get yourself out of the situation
  • “No need to hurry mate, I don’t want to get home too soon.
  • “Can you stop the car, I don’t feel very well.”
  • “I really need some air, do you mind stopping?”
  • “I feel sick, can you let me out?”
  • “I forgot I need to pick something up, can you pull over?”

Drivers – Take control…

• Speak out works both ways: if your passengers are distracting you, be prepared to say something. Good friends will listen, but if they choose not to, you can stop the car
• Good drivers notice when their passengers are uneasy: if they are holding on when you take a corner, or go a bit quiet, it could be down to your driving.
• Research shows that people find drivers who make them feel safe more attractive; why not impress your date with driving skills as smooth as you are?
• Get your friends home safely. Drive at an appropriate speed for the conditions and within the limit.
• Try not to get offended: it is hard for people to challenge a driver, especially a friend and they were probably nervous about speaking out.
• Let your passengers take charge of the music, navigation, or conversation to help you concentrate on driving.
• It can be hard getting your passengers to put their seatbelts on. A simple rule for your car might be no belt = no lift.
• Put your phone on DND or silent to help your passengers feel confident that you’re concentrating on your driving, and not on your phone.
• Avoid drinking, taking drugs and then driving. Choose a designated driver or book a taxi.