Eliminate Distraction
Did you know that 59% of teenage passenger fatalities occur in vehicles driven by another teen? Nearly half of all crashes involving teen drivers happen when one or more teenage passengers are present. The risk of a fatal crash increases dramatically when young drivers are accompanied by peers—and that risk escalates with each additional teen passenger.
Why does this happen?
Teen passengers often distract the driver, pulling their attention away from the road. More critically, peer pressure can influence teen drivers to make unsafe choices they wouldn’t consider if driving alone or with adults. Studies show that teens are more likely to speed and engage in risky behavior when transporting peers—especially younger ones.
Driving safely can feel socially isolating for a teen driver. While passengers may joke around, act silly, or push boundaries, the driver is expected to stay focused and responsible. This contrast can create intense pressure to “fit in” by bending the rules. In extreme cases, passengers may even physically interfere with driving—grabbing the wheel or nudging the driver—putting everyone at serious risk.
To combat this, most states have enacted laws that limit the number of passengers teen drivers can carry. These restrictions are designed to reduce distractions, curb peer pressure, and give young drivers the space to build safe driving habits.
Michigan Law
While holding a Level 2 License no more than one passenger under the age 21 (except for immediate family members).
Ohio Law
While under the age of 18 years old and within the first 12 months of holding a probationary driver’s license you may not operate a vehicle with more than one non-family member as a passenger unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Indiana Law
You may not drive with passengers for 180 days after getting your probationary license, unless you are also accompanied in the front seat by a licensed instructor, an individual with a valid driver’s license who is at least 25 years of age or a spouse who is at least 21 years of age. You may transport your child, stepchild, sibling, step or half sibling or spouse during the hours allowed by law without another accompanying individual.
What Can Parents and Guardians Do?
Your involvement is key to keeping teen drivers—and their passengers—safe. Start by making sure both you and your teen understand the laws that govern young drivers. Clearly outline the consequences of breaking those laws in your Parent-Teen Driving Agreement to reinforce accountability.
Encourage your teen to be a responsible passenger, especially when riding with another teen driver. Remind them that they can play a vital role in safety by acting as a calm, focused “co-pilot”—helping the driver stay alert and make smart decisions behind the wheel.
