Obtaining a driver’s license is a thrilling milestone for teenagers and their parents. It marks a newfound independence and responsibility. Parents should make sure their teenagers know that this privilege comes with an important need for safety on the road.
Research shows that newly licensed teenage drivers are prone to road accidents because they are still learning how to navigate the roads. Proactively guiding and educating teenagers on safe driving habits can help protect them when they’re behind the wheel.
Buckle up — every time
One of the simplest yet most effective safety measures that teenagers should practice is always wearing a seatbelt. Parents of newly licensed teenage drivers should emphasize that seatbelts save lives and should be worn by everyone in the vehicle.
Observe speed limits
Speeding is one thing many teenagers use to get an adrenaline rush when they are still new at driving. Parents should tell their teenagers that driving within set speed limits is best because excessive speed can cause an accident.
Avoid distractions
When a newly licensed teenage driver gets behind the wheel, they may want their friends in the vehicle with them. Unfortunately, this can become a distraction that takes the teenager’s attention from the road. Parents should inform their newly licensed teenagers about this and other forms of distraction, such as engaging with social media, responding to phone calls and texts and eating a meal behind the wheel.
Parents can set a good example by modeling distraction-free driving themselves.
Practice defensive driving
One effective way to help teenagers stay safe on the roads is to introduce them to defensive driving. When a newly licensed teenage driver anticipates potential hazards on the road, they can stay prepared and react just in time to avoid being involved in an accident. Some smart defensive driving skills that can keep teenagers safe include maintaining a reasonable following distance, watching for erratic driver behavior and checking blind spots before changing lanes.
Parents should remember that teaching their teenagers about road safety is an ongoing conversation, not a one-time lesson. Should their teen be involved in an accident, parents can enlist legal support to help ensure that the at-fault party is held accountable for their recklessness.