The leading cause of deaths for teenagers is traffic accidents. It has been this way for decades. But why is this? Well If you have ever been a teenage or have a couple of your own, you know better than anyone that teenagers sometimes make poor choices and are not aware of the danger that driving presents.

Well Ford is the first automaker to offer a solution to the problem. The Ford MyKey is an ingenious piece of technology. The key to your Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury car is implanted with a computer chip. This key is then given to your teen driver. When the car is started with this key; certain restrictions are implemented.

Speed Limiter

The MyKey has a limit to the speed that the car can go while your teenager is driving. For some reason teens tend to "feel the need for speed" especially boys. Well the top speed that a MyKey enabled car can go is 80 MPG. This lessens the chance of a high speed crash. Also an alert can be set go off at a predetermined speed.

Stereo Volume

Teens love to rock out to their crazy music at super high volumes! This poses some major concerns in that part of the driving experience require your ears. A load stereo can cause you to miss Emergency Vehicle sirens or the horns of other drivers. With the MyKey enabled the stereo volume is limited to 44% of the total volume.

Seat Belt Reminder

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, teens are less likely to wear seat belts than any other driving segment. Yes this is just something stupid teens do. I don't know if it is because they think they are invincible, won't get into an accident, or that they are too cool to wear a safety belt. Whatever the reason the MyKey plays an annoying bell called the Beltminder until the seat belt is latched.

So help keep your kids safe by using the Ford MyKey. The MyKey is available on any 2009 and new Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury vehicle. Source: Ford Media Website