It can be scary to watch your teen get their driver’s license and finally start going out on their own behind the wheel. The statistics can look pretty scary, as well, when it comes to teens and accidents. That’s why it is important to discuss driving with your teen before that start venturing out on their own.
Don’t expect their driving instructor to talk to them about things like distracted driving and driving while under the influence. As a parent, that’s your job. Here are a few ways you can help ensure your teen is smart on the road and behind the wheel.
Teach Them The Dangers Of Drugs And Alcohol
Teenagers experiment with drugs and alcohol, and it’s been happening for generations. Even if your teen doesn’t seem like the type, peer pressure can take its toll on teens that follow every rule. This is why you need to talk to your teen about the ramifications of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
Even buzzed driving is dangerous. Plus, since they are underage, getting pulled over for a DUI can be even worse for them and they may permanently lose their driving privileges. In this case, you may need legal assistance if you are not familiar with the applicable laws.
Get Them The Best Driving Lessons
Before you even send your teen to a driving school do some research and find the best one. Check the review rating of places, talk to other teen parents, and maybe even go in and check the place out ahead of time. You want to make sure you find a place that is going to give your teen the best driving lessons possible so they’ll be a safer driver.
The learning shouldn’t stop after paid lessons though. Once your teen has their permit you should go out with them and make sure that they know all of the tips and tricks needed to be a safe driver. If you see them always looking both ways and never doing rolling stops, you’ll feel more comfortable when it’s time for them to drive alone.
Make Sure They Know The Laws
The DMV usually has a booklet, per state, that tells about the different driving laws in that particular state, the same goes in various countries. Make sure that you go over these laws with your teen (like slowing down in school zones). Look them up online if you need to!
Make Sure They Have A Good/Safe Vehicle
Lastly, at some point, you’re going to buy your teen a car (or they’ll buy their own) so that they aren’t borrowing yours all the time. When this happens, you need to be with them to ensure they’re getting something safe and in good shape. Most teens first cars are used, so a lot of test driving will be in order.
Even if your teen has saved up and is buying their own first vehicle, you need to be there with them. Maybe even foot the bill to take it to a mechanic and get it checked out before they buy. This will teach them better car buying tactics for the future (because cars don’t last forever).