As a new driver, it will take time to get the skills needed to be a safe driver. With time comes comfort, knowledge and experience.

In Kansas, in order to get your non-restricted driver's license before you turn 17, you'll be required to get at least 50 hours of adult-supervised driving. Ten of those hours must be at night. Your supervisor, who can be any licensed driver at least 21 years old, must sign an affidavit stating that you have had at least that much experience behind the wheel.

During these early driving years, extra caution is required. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says young drivers (between 15 and 20 years of age) account for more than 8,000 fatal crashes per year. Rather than becoming a statistic, learn and practice safe driving habits.

Top Concentrate on Driving

There are numerous distractions you'll encounter while driving. Avoid or limit the following:

• Talking on cell phones

• Eating while driving

• Loud music

• Chatting with friends

• Smoking

Top Avoid Dangerous Behaviors

The following are life threatening and should never be attempted: hill-jumping, drag racing, speeding, drugs and alcohol. These pursuits are dangerous and careless; they're not worth risking your life.

Tips:

• Always wear your seat belt.

• Make sure you have enough gas.

• Obey all traffic signals. Never run red lights or stop signs.

• Do not race, hill-jump or compete with other vehicles on the road.

• Don't drink and drive.

• If you must use a cell phone, do so safely. Pull off the road and park to make a call.

• Keep the music down.

• When you're driving, your focus should be on your driving.

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