Prom season is an exciting time, and teens are likely to want to enjoy it—by dressing up, dancing, and possibly even driving independently. Is your teen ready to be safe behind the wheel?

Whether it’s impaired driving or merely distraction, there are many topics parents may want to discuss with their teens.

Discuss the Risks of Impaired Driving

Parents can talk with their teens about impaired driving. Here are a few talking points:

• It is illegal to drive while impaired—this includes impairment by substances such as alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs (legal or illegal).

• The risk of accidents and injury is greatly increased for impaired drivers and their passengers. 

• Any amount of alcohol increases the risk for accidents.

• The safest option is to avoid alcohol and other substances.

You can learn more about impaired driving from our article “Alcohol & Impaired Driving: What to Know to Stay Safe.”

Plan Ahead for Safe Transportation

One way parents can help teens avoid impaired driving is to make a plan for how they will get around. Ahead of the big night, discuss the following questions with your teen:

• Who will drive to and from prom?

• How many people will be in the car?

• What stops will you make along the way?

• What will you do if the driver becomes impaired? Do you have a backup plan?

Parents can help their teen download rideshare apps or arrange who will drive as a backup in the event that a driver becomes impaired. By having these conversations ahead of time, you can help your teen make wise choices, whether they are the one driving or riding.

Talk About Minimizing Distractions

Substances aren’t the only danger on the road—phones and other distractions can lead to car accidents, too. Be sure to establish boundaries around phone use in the car (not just during prom season, but all year round).

If your teen is driving with many other passengers, the chatter and noise can also be a source of distraction. Help your teen be aware of this and limit the number of people in the car, if possible.

Be Prepared for a Late Night

Let your teen know that you are available if they need a ride. Most parents would rather get a late-night call than for their teen to attempt driving while impaired—make sure to state this in clear terms ahead of prom night (or any outing). This doesn’t mean the parent should condone underage drinking or substance use—but showing your teen that you’re there for them no matter what can build trust within your relationship.