Getting a driver’s license is a huge achievement for many teens. Parents understandably may celebrate just a bit less even though many are very proud of their teens. After all, teens’ inexperience can increase the risk of accidents. Fortunately, instilling good driving habits from the beginning can help keep everyone on the road safe.
1. Use Seat Belts Every Time
One simple habit that can save lives is for teens (and all drivers!) to wear a seat belt each and every time they drive. For example, from 1975 to 2017, seat belts saved about 374,276 lives.
2. Follow Speed Limits
Emphasize the importance of following the posted speed limits. Talk with your teen about the fact that speeding increases the risk of accidents (and their severity) due to factors such as less reaction time, less margin for error, and greater impact force.
3. Practice Safe Following Distances
Safe following distances help give drivers enough reaction time if the vehicles in front of them brake suddenly. Fortunately, technology on vehicles such as a new Nissan for sale can simplify the process of maintaining ample distances and braking quickly, if needed.
4. Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving can be a menace, and distractions occur in so many ways. Smartphones, music, and other teen passengers are just a few examples. Some parents set rules such as not allowing phone use while driving and allowing only one other teen passenger at a time.
It is also important to note that teens who text or email while they drive are also at higher risk of performing other behaviors such as driving after consuming alcohol and not wearing a seat belt every time.
5. Forbid Drinking and Driving
One safe habit for teens is to never drink and drive. Being pulled over for suspected DUI can have tremendous legal and personal consequences, not to mention that drinking and driving puts everyone on the road in peril.
Many parents like to give their teens options for transportation if they do happen to drink. For example, maybe the parents have a rideshare account their teens can use, or the parents emphasize that their teens can call for a ride home with no judgment or scolding.
6. Use Turn Signals
Communication on the road goes a long way. Turn signals are an aspect of this, helping drivers anticipate others’ actions.
7. Check Blind Spots
Not checking blind spots before changing lanes or merging onto the highway can lead to crashes. Ensure your teens know how to quickly and safely check their blind spots. Technology on new cars often includes features such as blind spot intervention, too.
8. Check the Weather and Adapt Accordingly
Take your kids driving in various weather conditions so they get experience in rain, snow, fog, and the like. Focus on elements such as adjusting speed and following distance.
Keep Your Teens Safe on the Road
It is completely normal to have concerns about your teens driving. Fortunately, helping them develop good driving habits early can make them safe and responsible drivers for years.
