Teen Drivers Laws still Apply on Prom Night & So Do Social Host Laws for Parents!

Just in case you are a parent of a new Teen driver take a minute to remember the laws that pertain to your child/children. I realize that it is difficult to say no to your child when they ask to go with a group of friends to the prom, or an after prom event/party. As you are probably aware times have changed and teenagers who are new drivers have restrictions on their license when it comes to driving other kids in the car with them and what time they are permitted to be driving on the road. Please take the time to visit www.ct.gov/teendriving  to refresh your memory! Will your kid get mad at you? Probably, but trust me he/she will get over it!

While we are discussing the law….please remember that it is against the law to host an underage drinking party as well. Despite the fact that you take keys away for “safety”, there are so many more unsafe things that happen at these parties that can lead to life changing consequences as well. Talk to your kids about the dangers of drinking and driving or getting into a car with someone who has been drinking (kids & adults alike!) Be honest, be direct, be scary…because the reality is that kids are not invincible and we need to remind them of that occasionally! As we host another “Mock Crash” at MHS on Thursday May 17^th, our hope is to share with our teen drivers and parents what can and has often resulted when poor decisions are made when getting behind the wheel after drinking! Visit www.settherulesct.org  for more information. Your kids have plenty of friends; right now it is time to be their parent!