Distracted teen driving poses significant risks to both the drivers themselves and others on the road. One major risk is the use of mobile phones while driving, which can lead to visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. For example, texting or using social media while driving takes the driver's eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and attention away from driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Another risk is peer distraction, where teen passengers can divert the driver's attention through conversations, loud music, or horseplay. This can impair the driver's ability to focus on the road and react to potential hazards.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, 8% of all drivers involved in fatal crashes were reported as distracted at the time of the crash, with drivers under the age of 20 having the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes.

Educating teens about the real risks of distracted driving, implementing stricter laws and penalties, and promoting technologies that limit distractions in vehicles are crucial steps to address this issue and improve road safety.