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Jul 9, 2020

Driving is a rite of passage for many American teenagers. Though teaching teens how to drive can be stressful, there are several tips you can pass on to help them navigate the road safely. Consider the following tips when teaching your teen safe driving habits. These tips can help them get behind the wheel with confidence and give you greater peace of mind. 

Put Safety First

Before heading out on the road, it’s important that your teen driver understands the consequences of poor driving. Make sure you stress the importance of following driving rules, whether they’re driving alone or with passengers in the vehicle. This can help them act more responsibly behind the wheel as they learn the dangers that can come from reckless driving. Overall, it holds them accountable for their actions when they’re in the driver’s seat.

Avoid Distracted Driving

Along with discussing general safety, you also need to discuss the importance of keeping your eyes on the road. As cell phones have increased in popularity, it’s more important than ever to discuss the dangers that come with texting and driving. Along with cell phone usage, music can also be a distraction if they’re too fixated on changing the radio station or upping the volume on the stereo while they drive. Let your teen know the importance of staying focused on the road.

Consider the Law

One way to ensure teens stay safe on the road is to enforce the law. Make sure they understand all the rules as they relate to the state you’re in. This can help them feel more prepared on the road. Your teen driver needs to understand state restrictions and regulations, the importance of following these rules, and what can happen if they don’t.

Plan For Different Scenarios

Your teen driver will likely be driving in normal road conditions at first; however, it’s important to prepare them for a variety of scenarios. Before they get behind the wheel, expose them to the different circumstances they could find themselves in, such as wet weather, peak traffic hours, driving at night, and driving on the highway. Help them know the best practices for these types of driving to ensure their safety when dangerous situations arise.

Consider the Drive

Before your teen steps on the gas, teach them to anticipate their upcoming drive. Have them take into account where they’re going, how long it’ll take to get to their destination, if they have enough gas, what the weather is like, what the traffic is like, and the overall route they plan on taking. If weather or traffic is an issue, they can plan their trip around these factors. If they don’t have enough gas, then they know they need to fuel up before reaching their destination. When they consider these factors ahead of time, it can help them think more strategically and make wiser decisions on the road. It can also keep them safe and cause less stress in the long run.

With these tips and the right guidance, your driving student is better equipped to get behind the wheel. The more they use these tips to their advantage, the easier and more enjoyable driving can be.