As a parent, there are few things scarier than when your child gets behind the wheel for the first time. You know that driving can be very dangerous, but you might not know if your teen will practice good safety habits.
If you want to do your part to protect your teen from suffering a severe personal injury on the road, it is best to start teaching the importance of safe driving as soon as possible. With a few teaching tips in mind, you will be well-equipped to prepare your teen for solo driving.
Be a role model
Even the most rebellious of teens will sometimes mimic their parents’ behaviors without realizing it. That is why being a good role model is so important, but 75% of surveyed teens claim that their parents check their phones while driving, not to mention other unsafe actions. Be sure to always practice these safety habits especially when your child is in the vehicle:
- Adjust mirrors
- Buckle your seatbelt
- Have good driving posture
- Make timely signals
- Remove distractions
Use safety apps
While your teen should never text and drive, they should always have a phone in case of emergency. By requesting your teen to download driving safety apps, you can monitor driving habits and restrict texting functionality above a certain speed limit.
Be a thoughtful occupant
Being a good passenger to your teen when they have their learner’s permit can go a world of good. Avoid being a distraction and use mistakes as an educational opportunity without being harsh or punishing.
When teens reach driving age, they are often ready to experience some newfound independence. Your teen might resist your attempts to instill safe driving knowledge, but you can get through if you take the right approach.