As parents, the thought of a teenage child taking the wheel can evoke a mix of pride and anxiety. On the one hand, the freedom of not having to be an Uber for your teenager’s activities is nice. On the other, the fear of them having to navigate roadways with drivers that are often distracted and not paying attention is concerning. With the right guidance and strategies, you can help to better ensure your teenager drives safely and reduces the risk of getting into a crash.
Four tips for safe driving practices
These tips can help increase the odds that your teenage driver practices safe driving:
- Lead by example: Demonstrate safe driving practices whenever you drive with your teen. Discuss the steps you are taking while driving with your teenager so they can have a better understanding of how to drive in various conditions and situations. Actions often speak louder than words.
- Set clear rules: Establish firm rules about speeding, alcohol consumption, texting, and other distractions. Some find it helpful to include a rule that the teenager pay any increase in insurance costs if the teenager is stopped for speeding or other traffic violations.
- Choose a safe vehicle: If possible, opt for a car with advanced safety features and good crash test ratings. Avoid high-powered vehicle models that might encourage speeding.
- Encourage practice: More hours behind the wheel under supervision increases confidence and competence.
Some parents also find it beneficial to use technology to their advantage. There are many different apps that can offer parents peace of mind while their child is driving. Review available offerings to see if any work for your family’s needs.
Important steps in the event of a crash
Despite precautions, accidents can happen. If your teen is involved in an accident, it is important to remain calm and encourage your child to check themselves and anyone else involved in the accident for injuries. If you are in communication with your child or at the scene, make sure everyone is safe and call for medical help if necessary.
It is also important to document the scene and gather information. Take photos of the accident scene, damages, and road conditions. Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver. Note witness statements and contact information. Just because your teenager is relatively new to driving does not automatically mean they are at fault for the accident. The crash may be the result of another driver’s careless choices. If so, this information will prove helpful in building a case to hold the other driver accountable for the cost of the accident.