You might be concerned about the safety of your teen driver. After all, accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers.
Teens are particularly vulnerable because of the rapid changes their brains undergo. The teenage years are also a time of heightened impulsivity, excessive confidence, and decreased attention to detail.
If you’re wondering how to prepare a teen driver for the road, keep reading. Here are some tips on how to help them develop the crucial driving skills and maturity needed for driving success.
Apply for a Learner’s Permit
Getting your teen a learner’s permit is an important step toward preparing them for the road. A learner’s permit is an essential step in maximizing their safety on the road. This encourages teens to practice driving in various settings with a safe and responsible adult.
This allows them to gain real-world driving experience in the presence of someone who can assist when needed. The permit also enables responsible teens to become more familiar with different types of roadways. This includes highways, back roads, and intersections.
This IMPROV online course encourages teens to practice driving in various settings with a safe and responsible adult.
Review the Rules of the Road
It is important for parents to review the rules of the road with their teen drivers before they hit the road. This can include familiarizing the new driver with the rules and regulations for safe driving. This includes speed limit, road signs and signals, safe driving distances, and other state-specific laws.
Teaching these safety rules when a teen first begins to drive can prepare them for scenarios they may encounter while on the road. Reviewing these rules perhaps more frequently than just once can also emphasize the importance of safe driving habits.
Set Ground Rules
When it comes to preparing your teen driver for the road, setting ground rules is an important step. Ground rules provide a clear set of expectations that can help guide and protect your teen driver’s decisions. These can help reduce their risk of getting into an accident or getting hurt while driving.
These should include the number of passengers, curfews, and restrictions on cellphone use while driving. Without clear ground rules, your teen driver may be more likely to take unnecessary or dangerous risks. To keep an eye on them during the first few times, consider using a GPS car tracker.
Introduce the Basics
Introducing the basics of driving to your teen driver provides them with the skills, knowledge, and awareness required to stay safe while driving. It also teaches them the proper etiquette to promote a safe environment for all drivers.
Knowing the basics can help them react quickly in case of an emergency, such as when they need to change lanes or make a sudden stop. They can also become more confident behind the wheel with basic driving education.
Be a Good Example
Becoming a good role model starts before they even get on the road. Teaching them responsible driving requires your responsible example. They will learn to drive by watching and emulating your behavior. Explain the importance of following all rules.
Show them how to maintain the car and the importance of regular check-ups. Help them understand how to handle more treacherous driving conditions. Explain the importance of avoiding distracted driving.
Tips for Your Teen Driver
Taking the time to properly prepare your teen driver for the road will ensure they are safe and can handle any challenges they may face. With the right knowledge, practice, and patience, your teen will have the necessary skills to stay safe on the roads.
To start, enroll your teen in a driver education program today!
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