As a parent, there are few things more stressful than handing over the keys to your newly licensed teen driver. When the time comes, you have to trust that you’ve taught them well and instilled a sense of responsibility. Still, setting some rules and encouraging good habits can help prevent your child from becoming one of the eight teens who die in a motor vehicle crash each day.
While statistics often aren’t enough to change behavior, pairing them with some simple rules can help keep the new drivers in your family safe. Start with these five tips.
1. Remember Who Is Setting the Example — and the Rules!
FACT: Among teen drivers that were killed in 2020, 56% were not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
When you’re behind the wheel of the car, remember that you're setting an example. As your teen observes your driving behavior, they’re picking up cues regarding what is and is not acceptable behavior. This means that you need to behave the way you want your teen drivers to behave when you’re not watching them.
The first order of business? Always, always wear your seatbelt and let your teen know that doing the same is a non-negotiable requirement. When you’re driving, also avoid multitasking, don't tolerate rambunctious or distracting behavior in the vehicle, and avoid giving in to road rage at all costs.
2. Create a Written Contract
FACT: Teenage drivers are eight times more likely to be involved in a car accident or a near miss within the first three months after getting their driver’s license.
It’s important for new drivers to understand that having a license is a privilege, not a right. Creating a Parent-Teen Driving Agreement can help establish structure and ensure your teen understands the rules, responsibilities, and consequences associated with the choices they make behind the wheel.
Putting restrictions on your teen’s driving can help keep them safe until they have more experience. After they've had their license for a while and have shown they're safe and responsible, consider adding additional privileges, such as recreational driving or allowing passengers in the car.
3. Limit Driving Time
FACT: 44% of car accidents among teens occur between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., and 50% occur on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
When a teen is first licensed, consider only allowing them to drive to school and pre-approved functions during daylight hours. Make sure they’re getting enough sleep to avoid the dangers of drowsy driving and that they’re leaving early enough so they aren’t rushing to get to their destination. Once you allow them more freedom, continue enforcing a driving curfew.
4. Know Who is In the Car
FACT: Teens driving by themselves with another young adult or teen passenger are 44% more likely to be involved in a car accident. This number increases with every additional young adult passenger.
Especially in the early days, it’s critical to limit when, who, and how many teens are in the vehicle. The presence of additional young passengers can lead to distracting behaviors such as listening to loud music, dancing, singing, and “acting wild.”. Other teens may also encourage your child to engage in reckless driving or other unsafe behaviors.
5. Require Additional Training
Studies show that unsafe driving behavior is on the rise, which means that even if your teen follows all the rules, they still may find themselves in a dangerous driving situation. If you really want to keep them safe, reduce driving anxiety, and ensure they can handle any situation with confidence, consider enrolling them in a defensive driving course shortly after they receive their driver’s license.
During the course, they will learn how to anticipate problems on the road and proactively respond. This will help them avoid unexpected and potentially dangerous driving situations. I Drive Safely’s online defensive driving course is a fun and affordable way for your teen driver to become a safer driver. Take a look at your options today!
Updated 3/20/23
