Tips for Teen Drivers

You want to keep your teenager safe, you want him or her to make the best possible decisions when driving and you would probably prefer to be in the passenger seat every single trip they take.

Getting your teen the best driver’s education is the first step. These classes tend to be long and boring for eager to-be drivers, so stress to your teenager ahead of time that classes are an important part in learning how to drive—and that they don’t last forever. Make sure your teens are studying the material or booklets provided. You might want to even offer to quiz them. And closely track the time they spend driving with their permit; it’s easy to guesstimate or make up numbers to fill the requirement, but if you choose this route, you’re really only cheating your son or daughter out of the extra practice they could gain with an experienced driver.

Equipping your teen for driving means making sure they’re using a safe, reliable car while they’re still green. Most parents lean toward getting a big, heavy model because they think this will be the best option if a crash should happen. The truth is, these types of vehicles are hard for new drivers to learn how to use and are difficult to maneuver in an emergency situation. Instead, stick with a medium-sized sedan that’s easy to handle and comes with good performance ratings. In addition, it’s a good idea to splurge just this once to make sure your teen’s car comes with at least a few extra safety features. Anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control help in times of skidding and are especially useful during winter months. A Global Positioning System (GPS) like On-Star or a roadside assistance plan also gives your teen access to quick emergency services and you peace of mind.

Finally, teens will benefit if you not only give them a list of rules to follow but enforce them as well. Don’t let them develop bad habits, and they’ll start practicing safe driving techniques from the very beginning. Consider what you want to enforce in the areas of: Freeway driving Late-night driving Passenger limits Texting and cell-phone usage Riding with friends who are new drivers Make your rules clear, easy to follow and non-negotiable. Teens might think you’re being overprotective, but sticking to a set of rules for inexperienced drivers is the best way to prevent car accidents or injuries. And no matter what, make sure your number one rule is to wear a seatbelt at all times.

• Freeway driving
• Late-night driving
• Passenger limits
• Texting and cell-phone usage
• Riding with friends who are new drivers

Make your rules clear, easy to follow and non-negotiable. Teens might think you’re being overprotective, but sticking to a set of rules for inexperienced drivers is the best way to prevent car accidents or injuries. And no matter what, make sure your number one rule is to wear a seatbelt at all times.