Most people were ‘teen drivers’ at one time. Now that most parents have teens of their own, it’s time to lay some ground rules in making sure they drive safe and drive smart. Car Accidents involving teen drivers are still increasing. There are many reasons for this, but the main cause is distracted driving. Face it, teen drivers are the most inexperienced drivers on the road today.
These four (4) rules will help in keeping your teen driver safe while they are behind the wheel:
- Talk to your kids about traffic safety early and often, before they reach driving age, but don’t stop there. Have conversations with the parents of your kids’ peer groups and compare notes—both are key to your teens’ safety. (In 2011, car accidents were the leading cause of death for 14-18 year olds in the U.S. That year, 2,015 teen drivers were involved in fatal crashes. Almost half (45%) of those teen drivers died in the crash.)
- Show your kids safe driving behavior. Start by modeling good habits any time you drive, even before they begin to drive. Turn off your cell phone and put it in the glove compartment before putting your key in the ignition. (Talking is important, but action is even better.)
- Set ground rules and outline the consequences for breaking them in a Parent-Teen Driving Contract. Consider hanging your contract by the family car keys or near the front door.
- Set rules for your teen driver. Make sure they follow these. It’ll put your mind to ease knowing they are that much safer.
- No CELL PHONES
- No Extra Passengers
- No Speeding
- No ALCOHOL
- Seat belts – ALWAYS!
These tips/rules can have a real impact on your teen driver. Let them know that you are serious about these rules. Make sure they know: Driving is a privilege and not a right.
With these tips and rules in hand, it’ll ease both your mind and also the mind of your teen driver.
