How to Help Your Teen Be Safe Driving
Good driving habits coupled with reasonable rules can result in safe driving for your teen and peace of mind for you.
Instructions
- Step 1: Have the vehicle inspected Have the vehicle inspected to make sure it is in safe driving condition. Make an emergency kit with flares, a flashlight, and jumper cables, and put it in the trunk or back seat.
- Step 2: Establish ground rules Establish rules for when your teen is allowed to drive, allowing them to help develop these rules. Limit night driving and driving during inclement weather.
- TIP: Consider placing limits on the number of passengers allowed in the car, text messaging, cell phone use, and music volume.
- Step 3: Develop a contract Write and sign a contract with your teen. Include safety items such as seatbelt use, traffic laws and speed limits, passenger restrictions, impaired driving, and curfew compliance.
- Step 4: Show respect Show your teen that you respect them by agreeing to exercise patience, and to teach proper driving techniques and driving courtesy.
- Step 5: Consider a defensive driving course Consider sending your teen to a defensive driving course. Conduct an internet search to find where and when it is offered locally.
- FACT: Did you know? Fifteen to 20-year-olds comprise only seven percent of drivers, but are involved in nearly 20 percent of all crashes.
You Will Need
- A vehicle inspection
- An emergency kit
- Ground rules
- A safe driving contract
- Mutual respect
- Strict limits
- A defensive driving course
- Computer with internet access