If you are the parent of a teen who is learning to drive or already has a driver’s license, there are many things to consider. You want your children to be autonomous, but you also recognize that they need rules and procedures to keep them safe on the road. So, what can a parent of teen drivers do to ensure their children remain safe behind the wheel? Our firm has several tips for parents and their teenage drivers to prevent accidents and promote safe driving.
Establish Ground Rules
State law now governs when teens are allowed to drive and who may accompany them in the vehicle. When a teenager gets their driver’s license, a parent may want to add additional rules. It is important to discuss these rules and communicate them to your child both before and after they begin driving. Setting rules for acceptable driving hours and routes can help keep your child safe behind the wheel, especially as a new driver.
GPS and Hands-Free Kit for the Car
Many teenagers are addicted to using their phones. However, cell phones can be a dangerous and potentially illegal distraction while driving. If your teen needs to use a phone while driving, install a hands-free kit in the vehicle to make mobile phone use safer. A GPS in the automobile also assures that your adolescent driver never gets lost while driving.
Payment for Gas and Auto Insurance for Your Child
Your young driver may not yet be able to pay for a car on their own. However, if your teen uses the car, it is a good idea to have them contribute to the cost. Speak with your child about filling the gas tank after use and the costs of additional insurance fees for a new driver. This is a great way to teach your child responsibility and accountability. Young people crave independence, but as a parent, you must ensure that they balance autonomy with responsibility and ownership.
Learn More about Keeping Teenage Drivers Safe
For more information on how to keep your teenage driver safe on the road, reach out to Tittle & Perlmuter. We are here to answer your questions and promote responsible driving for adolescents.