Should The Radio Be Playing When A Teen Is Behind The Wheel?

For more seasoned drivers, you may not notice the radio playing. However, music and the radio can be the perfect distraction for new drivers. Many people ask, but should the radio be playing when a teen is behind the wheel? We address that topic below.

Music Can Be A Distraction

When it comes to music, the Association for Psychological Science said music can be a distraction for new drivers. For teens, they are new behind the wheel and don't always have the ability to tune out what is happening around them in the vehicle. Because of this, they tend to split their attention between what is happening inside the vehicle and what is happening on the road. This is not a good thing!

Radio Is Perfect Distraction

The radio provides a perfect situation for distracted driving. Not only is it the music, but also the need to switch channels or change the volume. This takes the eyes of the driver off the road and on the radio, so a huge distraction. Studies also show that music can make people drive faster or more aggressive based on the song playing.

Danger Zone For Teens

According to the Center for Disease Control, motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death among teenagers. Because of this, they recommend putting rules in place to help your teen stay safe on the roads. They listed eight danger zones for teens and one of those was distracted driving, which includes playing with the radio.

Because of this, no, the radio should not be playing when a teenager is behind the wheel. It is an easy distraction and teens are new behind the wheel, so all their focus and attention should be on the road!

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.