Essential Tips for Teen Drivers to Stay Safe on the Road
As a parent of teen drivers, it’s natural to worry about their safety. With distractions and inexperience, it’s key to talk to them about safe, responsible driving.
Discussing your concerns can ease your mind and help them stay focused on the road.
Here is a handful of the most important topics to discuss with your teen and to keep in mind before they’re able to drive on their own. It makes it easier to relax, knowing you’ve raised a responsible driver.
#1 Teenagers and distracted driving
You probably know very well how easy it is to get a bit distracted when you’re driving. A text message pops in, somebody turns the radio on its loudest and sings to their heart’s content in the back seat, or you’re just trying to eat your breakfast quickly before you arrive at work. Distractions are many and, as a driver, they’re definitely all around you.
The trick is, of course, to learn how you can still keep your attention on the road and not let all of these little things take your mind off what’s important. As a teenager, this is definitely a bit harder and it’s no wonder that distracted driving is the main cause of accidents among young people.
Talking to them helps raise awareness of distractions and maturity. Let them know it’s okay to ask friends to calm down and that pulling over is safer than risking an accident.
#2 How to handle an accident
It’s better if they never experience an accident, but it’s important to discuss what to do if one happens. Knowing the steps can help keep them safe and avoid costly legal issues.
Make sure that they have the numbers for your insurance company as well as an auto accident lawyer. Keep in mind that they need to know what to do in case they should be hurt on a motorcycle as well, by the way, if your teenager has obtained a license to drive a bike.
While they would have learned all about this while taking the courses to get their license, it’s a good idea to repeat it a few times so that you can feel confident that they’ll remember it.
#3 Set a good example
Your teen will mirror the driving habits you set, so be a good coach and prioritize safe driving. Your example can positively influence their behavior behind the wheel.
If you’re texting or calling while driving, your teen will likely do the same, no matter what you say. They’ll follow your actions more than your words.
As a parent, adjust your own habits to reflect the safety you want for your teen. Encourage them when they drive responsibly, and make sure safety remains their top priority once they’re licensed.
Once they’re driving solo, there’s not much more you can do. But with these tips, you’ll feel more confident about their safety on the road.
