According to Esurance, teen drivers have a 3 times higher risk of crashing when compared to adult motorists. As a result, most parents experience a bit of trepidation when their children receive their license for the first time. While you can’t always prevent an accident from occurring, there are steps you can take to ensure your child is driving with safety in mind.
Graduated licensing programs set rules for new drivers to allow them to acclimate to driving at an even pace. Not all states have these programs in place, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use the same tactics in your home. For instance, the presence of passengers in a vehicle can actually serve as a distraction, so limit how many passengers your child can have when just starting out. Nighttime driving can also be challenging, so consider implementing a rule prohibiting your child from driving after a certain time.
Practice is a must for inexperienced drivers. Along with providing lessons on your own, also consider enrolling your child in a safe driving course. Safe driving lessons can save you money on insurance, but most importantly it shows your teens the best practices for operating a vehicle. Your conduct will also have an impact on how well your child drives.
When driving with your teen, be sure to obey all the rules of the road. Also, limit distractions like mobile devices so your teen understands just how dangerous these devices can be behind the wheel. By setting a good example, you’ll show your kids the proper steps to keep themselves and others safe.
