Sweet Sixteen! 5 Things You Must Know Before Your Child Gets Behind The Wheel

So, your anxious teenager just received their driver’s license and is aching to show off their driving skills. It is inevitable, that if you are the parent of a teenage driver, they will ask you to drive at some point. As a parent and experienced driver, you will need to concern yourself with safety and ensuring that your young driver fully understands the rules of the road. There are a few simple points to consider before you allow your teen to drive the family car.

Know the State Driving Permit Rules

Be sure to review and understand your state laws concerning how driving permits work. If under a certain age, in most states, teen drivers are given a driving permit, which allows them to drive only with a licensed driver in the vehicle with them at all times.

Insurance Matters

If you plan to allow your teenager to drive, you will have to add them to your insurance policy to ensure they are covered in the case of an accident or they receive a ticket. This will save you the headache of explaining why a non-insured driver was using your vehicle illegally. Yes, it is illegal not to acquire proper insurance coverage for all drivers. Many insurance companies will offer a free initial consultation to discuss your insurance needs.

Risks of the Road

Teach your teenage driver good driving habits by setting an example as well as preparing them for the many risks of the road. Some typical concerns include driving in bad weather, how to handle a flat, or, the dreadful hit and run accident. You want to make sure your child is observant of road dangers, including other drivers who may exhibit bad driving habits. This will help them when they need to make judgment calls or decisions related to any risky situation that may occur while driving on the road. If you give your child sound advice on how to behave and to drive in a safe manner it could be the difference between a life and death.

Handling Emergencies

A discussion regarding how emergencies such as accidents, vehicle damage, flat tires, and even running out of gas is necessary to explain to your teenage what actions to take should the need arise. You want them to be prepared for all possible situations and handle them accordingly.

Passengers

In any typical driving situation, there may be passengers involved, some with different destinations, as well as their own ideas on how to get there. Advise your teen how to handle these situations by setting standard rules such as the amount of passengers allowed and the distance they can drive.

Finally, you have to remind your teenage driver that this is not driver’s education class any longer, but the real thing. Set proper expectations and remind them not to abuse their driving privileges due to avoidable mistakes, such as constantly running out of gas.