Research has shown that teenage drivers are three times more likely than adults to be involved in car accidents per mileage. The risk is higher within the first few months of acquiring his or her license.
Here is a driving guide for parents or guardians to help teen drivers stay safe. These guidelines are best followed even before the teen attains the legal driving age to sufficiently prepare them for responsible driving.
Set an Example18
As a parent or guardian to a teenager, it is your responsibility to model the type of driving habits they should emulate long before your kid receives their driver’s license. It is best to demonstrate the kind of safe driving behaviors you will expect from your teen before they get behind the wheel. Statistics have shown that one out of every four accidents in the United States of America was caused by texting and driving, with youngsters being responsible for the majority of such accidents. Teach your teen never to drive while distracted by any technological device. It makes the conversation much easier and allows you to set expectations freely when your teen begins to drive and reflects your own behavior.
Engage Them in Honest Discussions
You can help teens understand how certain behaviors while driving may increase the risk of getting in an accident. These behaviors include speeding, failing to use a seatbelt, tailgating, ignoring traffic lights, intoxication, and distractions. Engaging in one or more of these behaviors may greatly increase the risk of car accidents. Speeding is the most unsafe driving behavior in most countries, so it is best to teach your teen the advantages of being patient while on the road.
Close driving is another unsafe practice, so parents should discuss the importance of keeping a safe distance between cars. Do not be afraid to keep your teen aware of potentially dangerous conditions because it may keep them from engaging in high-risk practices.
Create Rules
Create rules for teen drivers and set expectations for them to meet to instill a sense of responsibility and accountability. Discuss the legal and financial responsibilities that come with owning a car, which include auto insurance premiums, repair expenses, and fines for unsafe driving. As long as the driver is still a dependent, it is best to establish some rules, including when (driving hours), and where (safe roads and neighborhoods) your teen is permitted to drive.
Leaving him or her to roam free with the newly found freedom and without a clear grasp of the responsibilities that come along with it can be dangerous.
Prepare Them for Unexpected Situations
Lecture your teens about what to do if they get involved in car accidents. It is unwise to assume that they will know what to do. Teach them the basics of handling a car accident, such as getting the other driver’s insurance and contact information, calling the police, taking photographs of the crash, completing an extensive accident report, and notifying the auto insurance provider a few moments after the incident.
Help them prepare an emergency kit for the car containing simple tools. Equip them with basic survival skills when their cars become faulty in an unknown area, including getting the car to a safe place before getting out. Simple skills like changing a tire or checking the oil may help them get out of tight situations and give them a sense of responsibility. Also, it is important to provide an emergency contact (maybe yours or that of an auto mechanic) for roadside assistance.You must teach them to own responsibility and not hit and run, as it may lead to serious legal consequences.
These are some of the ways in which you can promote safe driving habits in your teen driver. For affordable car insurance that will protect you and your vehicle, contact the team at Gee-Schussler Insurance Agency. We serve Orland Park and surrounding cities in Illinois.
