Believe it or not, many teens are very safe drivers. The key to getting them to that point is to make sure they are taught safe habits from the very beginning. Such driving habits are taught and reinforced over time. So it’s important to set a good example and practice the same driving habits you want to instill in your teen.
Driving Tips For Teenagers
Avoid Common Distractions
Avoid common distractions that involve cell phones and other items. Make sure that cell phones are safely put away and that the radio or GPS is already set prior to the teen putting the vehicle in the motion. If, for any reason, the teen needs to make a phone call or send a message, they should stop the vehicle, send the text, and then get back on the road. Always make sure the phone is put back in its place before leaving.
Limit Passengers to One
One of the biggest distractions for teenagers is having other people to talk to in the vehicle. If you want to allow your teen to carry passengers, then limit the number to one to stay on the safe side. Having one friend in the car may be very beneficial since they can help the driver locate turns and keep an eye out for other drivers. They can also keep track of cell phones and monitor the radio as necessary.
Teach By Example
As a parent, you are your teen’s first teacher. Setting a good example while you are behind the wheel of your car is the best way to imbibe safe driving habits in your child. Ride along with them whenever possible and offer advice if the teen needs it. Answer any questions they may have and offer encouragement when they get frustrated. Take the time to praise them when they do a good job behind the wheel.
Enroll Your Teen in a Defensive Driving Class
Enrolling your teen in a defensive driving class will provide them with a wealth of driving tips. They will be able to utilize these for many years to come. The class will teach them about the laws of the road as well as tips and tricks on how to be safe when road conditions aren’t the greatest.
Don’t Rush! Leave Early
Encourage your teen to take their time. Leave a few minutes early and don’t rush. When they take their time, they are more likely to stay focused on the road and identify potential road hazards before they become major issues. Leaving a little early will also make sure your teen arrives on time. It will also help you avoid bad driving habits like over-speeding and tailgating.
Teen safe driving tips are valuable guidelines that you can use to make sure your student driver is always as careful as possible while they are on the road. The agents at Phocus Insurance Services offer great advice on insurance needs for your teen drivers, which will help them become more responsible drivers. Call and schedule an appointment as soon as possible so you and your teen can have peace of mind.
