June 20, 2017
Do you remember getting your license and driving your first car? You can remember how excited you were, but now you know how nerve-wracking it can be for parents. Protecting teen driving can stressful and nerve-wracking as well. Here’s what you can do:
Hold your teen accountable for safe driving behaviors. You can download our Parent-Teen Driving Agreement to utilize in your household.
Driver inexperience is one of the biggest factors in car crashes. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, parents should be providing at least 30-50 hours of supervised practice over at least six months. Coach your teen on safe driving tips and provide insight into different traffic situations. After all, practice makes perfect.
When teens drive with other teens, the risk of a collision increases. Follow your state’s teen driving law on passenger limits and coach your teen on distracted driving.
Did you know that night time is the most deadly time for teens to be driving? Enforce a curfew of 9:00pm with your teen until you believe they are ready.
Do not text and drive. Taking your eyes off of the road for only a few moments could be fatal. If absolutely necessary, take phone calls and send a text message after pulling over to the side of the road in a safe area. Do not drink and drive. Wear your seat belt. The risk of severe injury and death is cut in half while wearing a seat belt. Follow the speed limit. Driving fast in general and during poor road conditions could increase your risk of injury. Be sure your teen is aware of hydroplaning in the rain, skidding during the winter months and the dangers of high speeds.
By acting on all of these tips and showing your teen how to drive safely, you are being a great role model. Always set a good example!
This summary is for general informational use only and may not include all relevant information.
Share
