Millennials and Gen Z Need to Shape Up Behind the Wheel

When it comes to driving, Millennials and Gen Z have a bit of a reputation—and it’s not always a good one. Often seen as tech-savvy and multitasking experts, these younger generations also have a penchant for being glued to their phones, constantly connected to social media, and in some cases, distracted behind the wheel.

In today’s fast-paced, digitally-driven world, these habits can lead to dangerous driving behaviors. But with a little guidance, Millennials and Gen Z can become safe, responsible drivers. At Get Drivers Ed, we’re committed to helping drivers of all ages develop better habits, stay safe on the road, and reduce risks associated with distracted driving. This blog will explore some of the challenges younger drivers face and offer tips for improvement.

The Unique Challenges Millennials and Gen Z Face on the Road

1. Digital Distractions

Let’s face it: Millennials and Gen Z have grown up in an era where smartphones are practically an extension of their hands. According to studies, smartphone-related distractions are one of the leading causes of accidents among younger drivers. Texting, checking social media, or even navigating with maps while driving can all lead to accidents in seconds.

At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize the importance of putting the phone down and keeping your focus on the road. Text messages, notifications, and Snapchats can wait. It’s essential to remember that no text is worth risking your life—or someone else’s.

2. Overconfidence Behind the Wheel

One thing many Millennials and Gen Z drivers share is a level of confidence—sometimes even overconfidence—when driving. Younger drivers often feel invincible, assuming that nothing bad will happen to them on the road. This confidence can lead to speeding, risky maneuvers, and ignoring traffic rules, increasing the risk of accidents.

Get Drivers Ed teaches drivers to respect the road and recognize that overconfidence can be dangerous. When you take driving seriously and focus on safety, you’re much more likely to avoid accidents and arrive at your destination safely.

3. Lack of Experience

While many Millennials have been driving for a few years, most Gen Z drivers are relatively new to the road. A lack of experience can mean that these younger drivers are less familiar with how to handle unexpected situations, like bad weather, heavy traffic, or aggressive drivers. Experience builds confidence, but until then, younger drivers need to learn how to stay calm and make smart decisions on the road.

At Get Drivers Ed, our courses focus on equipping new drivers with defensive driving techniques, helping them navigate tricky situations and build the experience they need to stay safe on the road.

Tips for Safer Driving Habits

Millennials and Gen Z drivers can make positive changes to their driving habits with a few small adjustments. Here are some tips to help these generations become better, safer drivers.

1. Put the Phone Away

One of the simplest—and most effective—ways to avoid distraction is to put your phone away before you even start the engine. Consider using "Do Not Disturb While Driving" features on smartphones, which automatically silence notifications when you’re behind the wheel.

If you absolutely need to use GPS, set it up before you start driving, or invest in a car mount that allows for hands-free navigation. However, remember that even with hands-free devices, it’s best to keep your interactions to a minimum. Get Drivers Ed strongly advises against any activities that can take your eyes or focus off the road.

2. Respect Speed Limits and Traffic Laws

Speeding may seem tempting, especially when you’re running late or on an open road, but it’s one of the leading causes of accidents among younger drivers. Respecting speed limits isn’t just about avoiding a ticket; it’s about giving yourself more time to react to sudden obstacles or changes in traffic flow.

At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize the importance of following speed limits and other traffic laws. These regulations are in place to protect everyone on the road, and following them can significantly reduce your risk of accidents.

3. Practice Defensive Driving

Defensive driving is all about being prepared for the unexpected. This means anticipating other drivers’ actions, keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, and always being prepared to stop quickly if necessary.

Millennials and Gen Z drivers can greatly benefit from a defensive driving course. Get Drivers Ed offers comprehensive defensive driving training that teaches you how to stay alert, avoid hazards, and respond to emergencies effectively. These skills can make a big difference in avoiding potential accidents.

4. Take Regular Breaks on Long Drives

Young drivers may have more energy, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to fatigue. On long drives, fatigue can creep up quickly, leading to slower reaction times and decreased awareness. Taking regular breaks can help you stay alert and focused, especially on road trips or lengthy commutes.

At Get Drivers Ed, we advise all drivers to take a break every two hours, stretch, and grab a quick snack to keep energy levels up. A well-rested driver is a safer driver.

Why Millennials and Gen Z Should Invest in Driver Education

Refresh Driving Knowledge

Even though Millennials and Gen Z grew up with access to information at their fingertips, it doesn’t always mean they know the rules of the road inside and out. Laws change, and it’s easy to forget certain regulations if you don’t encounter them regularly. Refreshing your driving knowledge with a course from Get Drivers Ed is a great way to brush up on the basics and ensure you’re well-informed about safe driving practices.

Understand the Consequences of Distracted Driving

Driver education courses, especially those that focus on defensive driving, cover the real-life consequences of distracted driving. Sometimes, seeing the statistics and understanding the risks associated with certain behaviors can be a wake-up call. Get Drivers Ed provides information and resources on the dangers of distracted driving, showing just how costly a simple glance at your phone can be.

Insurance Discounts

One of the perks of completing a defensive driving course is that many insurance companies offer discounts for drivers who have taken additional training. For young drivers, who often face higher insurance rates, this can mean significant savings. By taking a course with Get Drivers Ed, you’re investing in both your safety and your financial well-being.

Build Confidence the Right Way

While overconfidence can be dangerous, confidence built on skill and knowledge is incredibly valuable. Defensive driving courses at Get Drivers Ed help young drivers develop the skills they need to be truly confident behind the wheel, without the risky behaviors associated with false confidence.

How Get Drivers Ed Can Help

At Get Drivers Ed, we’re dedicated to helping Millennials and Gen Z drivers become safer, more responsible drivers. Our Online Defensive Driving Course is perfect for those who want to learn at their own pace, on their own schedule. Whether you’re looking to refresh your driving knowledge, dismiss a ticket, or get an insurance discount, our course covers everything you need to know to drive safely and responsibly.

Key Features of Our Course:

• Flexible Online Learning: Access our courses anytime, anywhere, and complete them at your own pace.

• Interactive Modules: Engaging content that covers real-world scenarios and effective defensive driving techniques.

• Certificate of Completion: Use it to potentially lower insurance rates or satisfy legal requirements.

Our course is designed to help you not only improve your driving skills but also develop a responsible attitude toward driving that will keep you safe on the road.

Conclusion: It’s Time for Millennials and Gen Z to Shape Up Behind the Wheel

Driving is a privilege that comes with a lot of responsibility. For Millennials and Gen Z, it’s time to recognize that safe driving habits aren’t just about avoiding tickets—they’re about protecting lives, including your own. By taking steps to eliminate distractions, respect traffic laws, and adopt defensive driving techniques, younger drivers can improve their driving habits and contribute to safer roads.

Get Drivers Ed is here to help. If you’re ready to take your driving skills to the next level, sign up for our online defensive driving course and start building safer habits today. Remember, safe driving is smart driving. Let’s shape up behind the wheel together!