As a car accident lawyer will attest, all too often teenagers are seriously injured or killed in automobile related accidents. This is a scary prospect for many parents. As soon as your teenagers begin the learner’s/licensing process, you should begin considering the advice you’ll provide to keep them safe.
Not all accidents are avoidable, but below are a few tips to keep your teenager safe on the road:
Set Driving Rules
Setting boundaries for your teen driver can help eliminate needless hazards while they continue to learn how to drive. Curfews, distance limitations, and check-in requirements can help keep your loved ones safe.
Emphasize the Dangers of Alcohol and Drugs
For many, adolescents sparks experimentation with illegal substances. While you don’t want to encourage drug and alcohol use, you do want your teenagers to remain safe. Explaining that you are willing to offer a ride in the event that they are intoxicated may save your family from a tragic accident.
Teach the Responsibilities of Driving
While they may be excited about the sense of freedom associated with having a driver’s license, it is also important to let them know that driving comes with a great deal of responsibility. Requiring your teens to help with a portion or car expenses such as purchase, insurance, maintenance, and repairs can help instill in them a sense of responsibility.
Take Control
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reminds parents of the tremendous role that they play in keeping their teenagers safe. Remember that you are not there to act only as a friend, but also as a parent. Explain to them repeatedly the dangers of driving recklessly. Don’t wait until they have their full license; start the first time they get behind the wheel.
Share News Stories
Your kids might think that these types of accidents never happen near them. The next time that you see an article in the newspaper, share the information with them. If your teens are old enough to drive, then they are old enough to hear and see the consequences of careless or reckless behavior behind the wheel.
Limit the Number of Passengers
Many teenagers get distracted when they are driving because they have so many friends in the car with them. When you are developing rules for safety, let them know how many people they are allowed to have in the car at one time. Limiting friendly distractions will help keep your child’s eyes on the road ahead.
Your teenagers might scoff or roll their eyes when you tell them that the time has come to discuss safe driving habits; however, keep in mind that these conversations can save their lives.
