Most teens always desire to drive their own car and the more they want to achieve this when the legal age to drive approaches. Many parents also look forward to this time particularly the dads. Those who can afford even surprise their teen child with a car as a gift on the day the teenager becomes of legal age.
But while the excitement is there to finally get to see their teen driving on his own, parents must not forget to remind their child about road safety. Being a model driver who practice safe driving techniques is one effective way of showing the young ones how to be safe on the road with or without passengers on board and eventually enjoy more affordable car insurance as they maintain a good record onward.
Here are more safety tips that parents must share with their teens. As always, prevention is better than cure hence constant reminder remains essential.
Don’t Use Your Cell Phone
Teens today can’t live without their cell phones but while on the road, they should avoid using their gadget. Studies have shown that using a mobile phone while driving is the same as driving while drunk even while using a hands-free phone. Take note as well that more states in the U.S. are passing laws banning the use of cell phone and texting among teen drivers.
Texting has also been found to reduce a person’s focus on the road. Whether you are driving or when you’re stopped beside the road, it is still a no-no to do this.
Follow the Speed Limit
Overspeeding has been one of the top reasons of fatal car accidents and as such, it is highly important for teen drivers to follow the speed limit all the time. Sometimes being first timers, these young ones can forget about speed as they cruise on the highways but it’s still best to be in control and not be pressured by vehicles that seem to be flying by around you. Sticking to the required speed limit will protect you and keep you away from trouble from traffic tickets to car crashes.
Practice Defense Driving
Defensive driving is a must at all times. This means you have to be aware of what’s in front of your vehicle, what’s behind and what’s beside you. By being on the alert, you will know how to act when things go wrong on the road. Remember to be at least one car length behind the car ahead of you when traffic is slow and keep a larger buffer zone in faster speeds.
Did you know that there is even a defensive driving course being offered today? If you enroll in this course and improve your driving skills, you have an opportunity to avail of a discount from car insurance firms.
Minimize Distraction
Make sure to avoid distractions while behind the wheel. To keep your focus on the road, don’t eat, drink, play loud music or do anything that can keep your attention away from the road. Distractions are among the major causes of road accidents as they reduce your ability to control the vehicle.
Drive Solo
Teen drivers should drive solo as much as possible. With a friend as passenger in the car, there is an increased risk of an accident, according to authorities. Having more young passengers is not advisable as well.
Originally posted on March 28, 2016 @ 7:34 am
