You may remember the great feeling of accomplishment you got when you received your driver’s license as a teenager. Getting a license is a major rite of passage in the life of a teen.
While your teen’s new-found freedom can free up your schedule a bit, you might be worried about your teen’s safety while driving. Even if your teen passed their license exam, they are still more at risk.
Aside from their lack of experience, teen drivers are more likely to take risks. Teens get distracted while behind the wheel and simply believe they won’t get in an accident.
Whether your teen is an excellent driver or could use a little more practice, car accidents are one of the leading causes of death among teens. You can’t guarantee their safety behind the wheel, but you can help them become safer drivers.
Check out these tips.
Keep an Open Discussion with Your Teen Driver
It’s no surprise talking to your teen may be challenging at times, especially if you’re talking about something like driving. Rather than approaching the subject of driving with the attitude of “these are my rules, no questions asked,” try making the discussion more open and allow your teen to give you some feedback.
Your teen already knows you have a part in the “final say,” but it doesn’t mean you should disregard their thoughts altogether. Maybe your teen is anxious about driving or maybe they have concerns but don’t know how to tell you.
Take the time to listen and talk often.
Clearly Explain the Consequences of Driving Irresponsibly
Many parents know consistency in parenting is effective but can also be challenging. Make sure you and your co-parent are on the same page regarding expectations about driving.
Once you’ve decided on some rules, discuss them with your teen and stick to them. Not only should you discuss the consequences of breaking your household rules but show them the bigger picture and explain it in regards to the “real world.”
Discuss how unsafe driving behaviors can lead to jail time, hefty fines, loss of a license, loss of academic opportunities and even death or injury.
Brush Up on State Laws for Your Teen Driver
Some teens may try to argue their way out of following your rules when it comes to driving. Learn the rules of your state, especially those concerning distracted driving, and use them as “backup” if you need to; your teen will have a harder time disregarding your rules if they are part of the state law.
Educating your teen on some of the alarming statistics can become an eye-opener.
Lead by Example
If you want to instill safe driving habits in your teen driver, you need to be a good role model while behind the wheel. Anything you expect your teen to do, you should do as well.
Want them to buckle up and put the phone away? Do the same.
Want them to drive with confidence and focus? Teach them how to drive defensively.
The actions you make behind the wheel will show your teen what’s right and wrong, choose to be a safe and good role model.
