Few things induce as much anxiety in a parent as watching their new teenage driver pull away. We remember what we were like as teens. We know their brains aren’t fully formed until they’re 25. What can we do?
If you and the law permit your teen to drive, here are some ways you can help them be safe drivers:
Set a Good Example: The most powerful way to teach is by example. Your kids are watching very closely. If you demonstrate driving without using your phone, obeying speed limits, and following traffic rules, your teens will be more likely to do the same.
Sign them up for Driver’s Ed: Not only does driver’s ed provide comprehensive training on road safety, traffic rules, and defensive driving techniques, it is also taught by someone other than you! Learning from an adult who is not their parent may carry some extra weight for a teenager.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Provide ample opportunities for supervised practice driving. Start in low-traffic areas and gradually progress to more challenging environments. Practice different skills, such as parking, highway driving, and navigating intersections.
Limit Distractions: Emphasize the importance of focusing solely on driving. Discourage the use of smartphones, eating, and other distractions while behind the wheel. Set clear rules about phone usage and model responsible behavior.
Limit Nighttime Driving: Many accidents involving teenagers occur at night. Establish a nighttime driving curfew to reduce the risk of accidents during the most dangerous hours. You can gradually extend the curfew as your teenager gains more experience.
Enforce Seat Belt Use: Emphasize the importance of wearing seat belts at all times. Ensure that all occupants in the vehicle are buckled up. Show your teen the statistics that show how much seat belts reduce the risk of injury and death in the event of a crash.
Discuss the Dangers of Impaired Driving: Have open and honest conversations about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Encourage your teenager to make responsible decisions and provide alternative transportation options if they find themselves in situations where they should not drive. With rideshare services like Uber and Lyft there is always an alternative to driving impaired.
Practice Defensive Driving With Them: Reinforce what they have learned at driver’s ed by letting them practice with you as a passenger. Remind your teenager to be aware of their surroundings and anticipate potential hazards. Emphasize defensive driving techniques, such as maintaining a safe following distance, scanning for potential risks, and being prepared for unexpected actions by other drivers.
Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Teach basic vehicle maintenance, such as checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and brakes. A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to experience mechanical failures that could contribute to accidents.
Monitor Driving Behavior: Use tools like parental control apps or devices that monitor and report on your teenager’s driving habits. Provide constructive feedback based on these reports and address any concerns promptly.
By combining these tips with ongoing communication and support, parents can play a crucial role in helping their teenagers develop safe and responsible driving habits.
Remember, the key to making your teenager a safer driver is open communication. Discuss the importance of safe driving habits and the serious responsibilities that come with driving a car.
If you or a family member have been injured in a car accident contact Aversa & Linn for help in evaluating your claim.
