One of the most common concerns for parents of teenagers is their child’s safety as they begin to drive. For many parents, texting and speeding are two of the main concerns that are often issues for new drivers.
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With these few simple tips, it can work to increase the safety and skill level of your teen when they get behind the wheel.
Practice defensive driving
Driving defensively means being aware of other drivers on the road and preventing an accident that could occur from other cars. Tell your teen to look both ways before driving through an intersection, as well as stay several car-lengths behind other drivers. Enroll your teen in a driving school. This will help them stay more aware while on the road.
Limit night driving
Few good things happen late at night, making it important to keep your teen off the road. More drunk drivers begin to travel from midnight to three in the morning with two-thirds of fatal crashes occurring during this time. Set a curfew for your teen and prevent them from driving late at night. Avoid job opportunities for your teen that would require them to travel after midnight.
Limit the number of passengers
The more teens that drive in a car together, the more distractions there are for the driver. Suggest that your teen only drive with one other person in their car in the first year of obtaining their license. Instruct them to keep their eyes on the road and to avoid playing the music too loud while driving.
Reduce speeds
Most new drivers maintain high speeds due to inexperience and a lack of understanding for the risk involved with potential accidents. Instruct them to slow down due to the law and the possibility of cars stopping abruptly ahead.
Turn the phone off
Even if a cell phone is in a purse or backpack, it can still be tempting for your child to reach over and respond to a text message or a phone call. Tell them to keep the phone off while driving to ensure that they avoid any distractions and obey the law.
With new drivers, there is often an excitement and thrill that comes with obtaining a driver’s license and having a newfound freedom. Although it’s impossible to monitor your teen’s driving habits, it’s important to discuss the guidelines and tips that they should follow in order to remain responsible and safe while on the road.
About the Author:
Karleia Steiner is a freelance blogger. She recommends enrolling your teen in a driving school like North Shore Driving School Ltd. to ensure your your child drives safely and responsibly.
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