HOW TO PREPARE YOUR TEENAGER TO BE A SAFE DRIVER

How to Prepare Your Teenager to Be a Safe Driver

Do you have a teenager who’s about to start driving? If your teen is growing up fast, and you’re worried about them getting behind the wheel, Ace Driver Training offers tips on how you can be prepared before your teen starts driving, and how to teach them how to be a safe driver.

Safety First

When your teen is approaching driving age, take active steps to make sure they’re prepared to be a safe driver. Talk to them about road safety, and make sure they’ll be alert on the road. Explain all the car systems, the meaning of the warning lights on the dashboard, how to adjust the seat and mirrors to increase comfort and visibility, and how to turn the headlights on.

Spend some time explaining the rules of the road, and be sure they understand that traffic laws are in place to provide safety to everyone on the road. Teach your teen that distracted driving greatly increases their risk of an accident, and don’t allow them to eat, chat with their friends, apply makeup, or fiddle with the radio. The key to safety as a new driver is to stay focused, and pay attention to the road. 

Educating Your Teen About Phone Use in the Vehicle

Have a serious conversation with your young driver about phone use in the vehicle, and how phones can cause serious accidents. In the United States 21% of fatal accidents involving a teen driver were caused by distracted driving and cellphone use. Keep your loved one safe, and don’t let your teen be a distracted driver. Make sure they won’t text and drive, talk on the phone while driving, or access apps on their phone behind the wheel.

Safe Phone Use Behind the Wheel

Phones are a major safety hazard, but they’re also a valuable tool. Smartphones provide directions, have a handy map, and are absolutely essential if your teen gets into an emergency and needs help. One way to ensure safe phone usage when driving is to get safe driving apps like Mama Bear, Automatic or AT&T Drive Mode, all of which have features to protect your teenager.  In Australia, there are apps such as Life360, Find My Friends, and Teen Driving Log. To ensure you’re able to track your teen with these apps, make sure they keep their phone connected to a charger whenever they’re driving so they don’t run out of juice. 

Finding the Right Vehicle

When it comes to finding the perfect vehicle for the teenager in your family, you want to find a mid-sized vehicle that will be small enough for easy maneuverability, but that still provides adequate safety and protection on the road. Do your research, and find a car both you and your teen will love.

Motorcycles and Scooters

Does your teen have their heart set on driving a motorcycle or scooter? Check your state laws for licensing and age requirements, as some places may allow teens to drive a small scooter even before they can operate a car. 

If your teen is going to drive a motorcycle or scooter, make sure they have protective riding gear, including a helmet, jacket, and pants that will protect them in case of an accident or fall. Make sure they never drive in sandals but have closed-toe shoes or boots to keep them safe.

Keep Things Calm

Although having a teen on the road can make you nervous, remember to remain calm and trust their abilities behind the wheel. If you’re a worrier, this may be easier said than done. So, take steps to soothe your nerves and relax whenever your teen heads out the door. This could include everything from using a guided meditation app to eliminating clutter around the house (clutter can cause your anxiety to flare). Whatever you choose, make sure it’s a calming activity that allows you to refocus and channel your energy elsewhere.

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Whether the teenager in your family is learning how to drive a car, motorcycle, or scooter, be sure to teach them about road safety, phone safety, and how to respect other drivers on the road. Also, consider enrolling your teen in a program at Ace Driver Training, which can help provide you and your family with some peace of mind.

This article was provided by Jennifer Scott, a writer from the USA.  Jennifer has written extensively on topics relating to the effects of anxiety and depression.  Jennifer can be contacted at jennifer@spiritfinder.org