Mesa County, CO – Grand Junction Police Department (GJPD) and Fruita Police Department (FPD) are teaming up to bring awareness during National Teen Driver Safety Week, October 18-24, 2026. This week serves as an opportunity for teens and parents to have meaningful conversations about safe driving habits and the responsibilities that come with getting behind the wheel.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of injury or death among teens ages 15-18. Helping teens understand the risks and responsibilities of driving is a key step toward keeping them and everyone else safe on the road. Parents play a critical role in preparing young drivers by reinforcing safe driving habits and leading by example.
The GJPD and FPD encourage parents to talk with their teens about the dangers of impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, and driving with passengers. Clear and open communication can make a positive difference in keeping your family safe on the road.
Tips for parents:
Establish clear expectations. Remind your teen that driving is a privilege and that it comes with responsibility.
**Know the laws **by familiarizing yourself with Colorado’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws, including passenger restrictions.
**Be a good role model **and demonstrate safe driving habits.
**Empower your teen to be a responsible passenger. **Encourage your teen to speak up when they feel unsafe, avoid distracting the driver, and never get into a vehicle with someone who is impaired or driving recklessly.
Talk regularly with your teens about safe driving and the rules of the roads.
By working together, we can all help keep our roads safer and save lives.
For more information about teen driver safety, visit Teen Safe Driving: How Teens Can Be Safer Drivers | NHTSA.