Do teens need to install an app?

No. Sentry Driver is a parent-only app. Your teen doesn't need to install anything or do anything differently. The app uses Tesla's Fleet API to monitor driving behavior directly from the vehicle.

How does Sentry Driver know when my teen is driving?

Sentry Driver uses Bluetooth detection from the parent's phone. When your phone is present in the car, monitoring is disabled. When your phone is not present (meaning your teen is driving), monitoring is automatically enabled.

Does Sentry Driver work with all Tesla models?

Yes, Sentry Driver works with all Tesla models that support the Fleet API, including Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, and Cybertruck.

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Teen Driving Statistics: Why Monitoring Matters

January 14, 2025 by Sentry Driver Team

When it comes to teen driving, the statistics are sobering. Understanding these numbers helps explain why many parents choose to monitor their teen’s driving behavior.

The Numbers

According to the CDC and NHTSA:

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens
Teen drivers ages 16-19 are 3 times more likely to be in a fatal crash than drivers 20 and older
Speeding is a factor in about 30% of fatal crashes involving teen drivers
The first year of driving is the most dangerous

What Increases Risk?

Several factors contribute to teen driving risks:

Inexperience

New drivers haven’t yet developed the instincts that come with years behind the wheel. They may not recognize dangerous situations until it’s too late.

Night Driving

Per mile driven, nighttime crash rates for teen drivers are about twice as high as daytime rates.

Speeding

Teen drivers are more likely to speed and less likely to adjust their speed for road conditions.

Distraction

Smartphones, passengers, and music all compete for a teen’s attention while driving.

How Monitoring Helps

Research shows that teens who know they’re being monitored drive more safely. A study in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that teen drivers with monitoring devices:

Had significantly fewer speeding events
Made fewer hard braking maneuvers
Were more likely to wear seatbelts

The Right Approach

Monitoring works best when it’s:

Transparent - Tell your teen you’re using the app and why
Constructive - Use the data for teaching, not punishment
Gradual - Consider relaxing monitoring as they demonstrate safe habits
Two-way - Let them see their driving score and work to improve it

Making It Work

Sentry Driver was designed with these principles in mind. The app provides:

Real-time alerts so you can address issues immediately
Weekly summaries for ongoing conversations
Driving scores that teens can work to improve
Trip history to review together

The goal isn’t surveillance - it’s helping your teen develop safe driving habits that will last a lifetime.

Ready to get started? Download Sentry Driver and try it free for 7 days.