Teaching Your Teen How to Handle Themselves On the Road
Buying your teen a car is a huge step towards their independence; it also means that you need to help them understand the responsibility of being a safe and responsible driver.
This is vital as it is a moment and memory they will remember all their life. You will also worry less about your child driving on the roads.
While you cannot control what they do on the road, this guide will offer tips to help your teen handle themselves responsibly.
Good Driving Habits
Being a good driver also involves cultivating good driving habits. One of the essential habits of being a good driver is staying focused constantly. The road is unpredictable, and your teen needs to avoid distractions.
Careless or Dangerous Driving
When your teen gets their car, they may be tempted to drive excessively fast. They may also be taunted to engage in a street race by their friends.
It would be best to educate them on the dangers of careless and dangerous driving. You can find many resources online to help you discuss the potential consequences of such behavior.
Driving While Intoxicated
You could teach your teen that drinking and driving is dangerous, yet they may decide to take a few drinks. If by any chance they get pulled over by police, a breathalyzer test will reveal they have alcohol in their bloodstream and could put them at risk of getting a DWI charge.
Having the best DWI lawyer by your side is vital in such a case. They will help keep your teen from the severe consequences of a DWI on their record.
Defensive Driving
Defensive driving is a critical skill set for new and old drivers. The road can be unpredictable, and anything can happen at any time. Accidents can happen before you, or someone could swerve into your lane.
Teaching your teen defensive driving skills will help them navigate difficult situations is vital. You can also enroll them in courses that teach defensive driving.
Proper Maintenance and Safety Checks
Regular safety checks can help prevent costly repairs in the future as minor issues are addressed promptly.
Teach them basic maintenance practices, such as regularly checking oil levels, tire pressure, and other fluids. Proper maintenance will make the car safe to drive, resulting in fewer accidents.
Accidents
Accidents are inevitable, but you can prepare your teen for what to do in case one occurs. Teach them to remain calm and stay at the scene until the police arrive.
Show them how to take pictures of the damage, exchange insurance information with other drivers, and fill out an accident report if necessary.
It would be best to also educate them on the possible legal consequences of getting in an accident. When they know what to expect, they can be better prepared mentally. They will also be more careful about their behavior to avoid being on the wrong side of the law.
Your teen must be prepared for as many possible situations as possible.
Preparation is as good as predicting the future. The safety and well-being of your teen depend on how well you prepare them, not just for the road but also for life.