Encouraging Your Teenager to Drive Safely
As a parent, one of your worst fears is probably your teenager getting into a car accident and it is natural to want your teenager to be safe when they are out on the road. You can help reduce the risk of them being in a car accident by talking to your teenager about safe driving habits and encouraging them to follow the rules on the road. Here are some tips to get you started.
Keep Your Teenager Safe on the Road: Tips for Parents
Talk to Your Teenager
Take the time to talk to your teen about the dangers of distracted driving. This includes texting, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, adjusting the radio, or anything else that takes their attention away from the task of driving. Explain that even a momentary distraction can lead to an accident. Make sure to also have regular conversations with your teenager about the importance of obeying traffic laws and being aware of potential hazards.
Why are Teenagers More Likely To Have an Accident?
It is helpful to understand that teenagers are at a higher risk of being involved in a car accident. As in anything, experience is a plus factor in driving. A new teen age driver is not experienced and is limited to his or her abilities. A new driver is not used to the car or the road and may misjudge the road at certain times, like on rainy days.
Teenagers also tend to drive by their emotions. For example, if he or she is upset they may speed. If their friends are in the car, they may take more risks than usual. And, of course, many teenagers think they are invincible and that accidents only happen to other people.
It can be helpful to give your teen a set of rules to follow while driving to avoid distractions. These rules could include;
- Turn off your cellphone
- Do not text and drive
- Obey the speed limit
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Keep the music volume down
- Leave the music on the station. Looking down, even for a moment, to change the station, can take your eyes off the road and lead to an accident.
- Don’t eat or drink while you are driving
- Give yourself enough time to get to your destination. This will avoid rushing and potentially speeding
- Make sure to use your turn signals
Set a Good Example
Set a good example yourself by being a cautious and responsible driver. Ensure you follow the rules of the road yourself and avoiding distractions while driving. Your teenager is more likely to imitate your behavior than listen to what you say.
Wear Seatbelts
Enforce seatbelt wearing at all times, even if your teen is just going for a short drive around the block. Seatbelts save lives and should always be worn when driving or riding in a car.
Obey the Traffic Laws
Discuss the importance of obeying the speed limit and other traffic laws. Speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents among teenagers, so it’s important that they understand the risks involved in speeding and why it’s so important to obey posted speed limits.
Prepare and Plan Ahead
Make sure your teenager is properly prepared by ensuring they have taken a Driver’s Education course and that they are familiar with their vehicle. Also help your teenager plan ahead by mapping out their route before they start driving. This will help them avoid getting lost or making wrong turns, which can lead to accidents.
Teach Basic Car Maintenance
It’s also important to teach your teenager basic car maintenance. This includes teaching them how to check their tire pressure, oil level, and other fluid levels. It is also important to make sure they know how to change a tire in case of a flat. Basic car maintenance can help prevent accidents by keeping the vehicle in good working condition.
As a parent, you play a vital role in keeping your teenager safe on the roads. You can encourage your teenager to be a safe driver in many ways. Some parents set rules and regulations while others give their kids the freedom to make their own choices. No matter what approach you take, it’s important to remember that every parent wants their child to stay safe on the road. By talking with your teenager about safety behind the wheel, you can help them make good decisions that will keep them safe now and in the future.
