When a teenager gets his or her driver’s license, it’s a day of many emotions for parents. On one hand, parents can look forward to having another driver shoulder the responsibilities of daily tasks. When a teen can drive himself or herself, it frees up a parent’s time and adds a layer of convenience to life.
Of course, a great deal of stress also comes when a teenager gets a driver’s license. Parents worry about their teen driving safely and avoiding accidents. After all, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens.
Fortunately, there are effective tips that can help new drivers arrive at each destination without incident.
Buckle Up
Despite a driver’s best efforts, some accidents are beyond his control. No one can control another driver’s actions, such as recklessness, distracted driving, or poor judgment. Road conditions and mechanical failure can also play a role in accidents.
However, wearing a seatbelt can dramatically reduce the risk of serious injury and death. Even when vehicle damage is extreme, if the driver is wearing a seatbelt, there is a good chance he or she will be able to walk away without major injuries.
Never Drink and Drive
Not only is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol illegal, but it’s also highly dangerous. Driving while impaired can significantly affect a teen’s judgment and ability to drive well. This is true for people of all ages, but for new drivers, the effects of drinking and driving can be even more dangerous.
Eliminate Distractions
It seems like no one goes anywhere today without a mobile device in hand. Teens use smartphones as much, if not more, than any other age group. Unfortunately, the compulsion to use mobile devices doesn’t leave when a person gets behind the wheel. Teenagers can be susceptible to the temptation to text, call, take selfies, or browse the internet while driving.
However, these devices can be extremely distracting. Even taking eyes off the road for a split second to look at a cell phone can have disastrous consequences.
Teens should commit to never using an electronic device while driving. Before starting the engine, the teen driver should place the device in the glove box or another location he or she cannot easily access. If the teen driver must use a phone, it’s best to pull over to a safe place first.
Watch the Speed
Speeding is a significant factor in many car crashes. Young drivers may be tempted to test how fast their cars can go. At higher speeds, it is much more difficult to control the vehicle, bring it to a stop, and avoid obstacles on the road. Parents must teach their teen drivers to slow down and obey the speed limit.
Get Your Teen Comfortable with Night Driving
Any experienced driver knows that driving at night is more challenging than driving in the daytime. This is especially true in rural areas and in mountainous regions where there is little light at night. When your teen gets a license, spend time driving with them at night so they can develop the necessary experience and skills.
The Bottom Line
You may continue to worry about your teen driving, but when you implement these tips, you can have more peace of mind. For additional strategies on how your teen can drive safely, contact the team at Friedman Law Offices. Call us today at 1-800-876-1093.