Why Forward Focus Matters: Helping Teens Build Safer Driving Habits

Each day in the U.S., we lose an average of seven teens in motor vehicle crashes. Many of those crashes share a common factor: the driver’s eyes weren’t on the road ahead.

At End Distracted Driving (EndDD), we know that teaching young drivers to maintain their focus forward is one of the most effective ways to prevent crashes before they happen. That’s why we’re proud to highlight a new evidence-based training tool developed by Johns Hopkins University to help address this exact issue.

 

 

 

The Science Behind Staying Focused

This new Attention Maintenance Training helps drivers — especially teens — stay visually engaged with the forward roadway and avoid risky glances that can lead to crashes. Through a series of video-based scenarios and cognitive tasks, the tool builds habits of scanning, situational awareness, and mindful attention.

Backed by empirical research, this training has been shown to:

  • Reduce the number and duration of glances away from the road
  • Improve a driver’s ability to detect and respond to hazards
  • Instill lasting habits that reduce crash risk

 

“This kind of research-based tool gives teens the chance to practice what we teach in our presentations — that every glance away from the road could have life-altering consequences. Tools like this are essential in helping us change behavior and save lives.”
Joel Feldman, Founder of End Distracted Driving

 

A Shared Mission to Save Lives

This collaboration with Johns Hopkins reflects our shared commitment to empowering young drivers through education and action. It’s not just about knowing the risks — it’s about practicing the right habits before they get behind the wheel.

We encourage parents, educators, and driver’s ed instructors to explore this new tool as a powerful supplement to EndDD programs and presentations.

Try the Attention Maintenance Training

To learn more about the Johns Hopkins Attention Maintenance Training and how it can support safer driving habits, visit: https://www.driverfocus.org/dashboard