3 Tips to Make Your Teen a Safer Driver

Jul 10, 2015

We understand that getting a driver’s license can be a rite of passage for teenagers. But teen drivers often cause their parents to worry about their safety behind the wheel. Approximately 2,650 teenagers between the ages of 16 and 19 died in motor vehicle accidents in 2011. Over 290,000 teens were treated by medical professionals in emergency rooms after car accidents that same year.

Help teach your teen to be a safe driver with these tips.

Minimize Distractions

Talk with your teen about distractions behind the wheel. They can include eating, drinking, using a cell phone, and even listening to music. Anything that takes your teen’s eyes and mind off the road even for a few seconds can increase the likelihood they will not be able to react in time to danger on the road.

Consider encouraging your teen to drive without friends in the car until they have some experience behind the wheel. Additional passengers in the car can increase the risk of an accident.

Encourage Defensive Driving

By driving defensively, teens can help prevent getting themselves into dangerous driving situations. Tell your teen to be mindful of where traffic is around them and to always obey the posted speed limits. Teens should also leave enough distance between their car and the one in front of them to stop safely.

Explore the possibility of enrolling your teen driver in a defensive driving or a safe-driving course. These courses will give your teen valuable experience behind the wheel.

Be a Good Role Model

Teenagers learn a lot by watching you drive, so be a good role model for your teens by driving responsibly. Avoid distractions such as talking or texting on a phone. Wear your seatbelt every time you get behind the wheel, and never drink and drive.